Student Commits Suicide In Dominion Hall

By Broadside Interim Assistant News Editor Lynn Gold

• Updated on Tuesday, September 9 to add information.

Trevor Curiel, an 18-year-old freshman from Kansas, was found dead in his room in Dominion Hall on Monday, Sept. 1, 2008 according to Mason Press Secretary Dan Walsch.

Curiel's roommate discovered the body around 6:30 p.m. and immediately alerted the on-campus police who responded to the scene. The floor was sealed off and the area investigated. Curiel’s body was released to the Office of the Virginia Medical Examiner, which ruled the death a suicide based on evidence that the incident was self-inflicted.

There has been a widespread student response on campus, even from those who did not know Curiel personally. “The news was heartbreaking—I wish I could have gotten to know him,” said Carly Reddig. “I am shocked and saddened that this tragedy happened so early in the semester, and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends,” said AnnaGray Morton. “From the little I knew about Trevor, he seemed like an intelligent person with a lot of potential,” said Hayley Roder.

Curiel was attending Mason on a scholarship from the debate team and double majoring in government and international politics and conflict analysis. He was known among family and friends as having diverse interests and talents, including those in art and music.

Distress and unanswered questions are running around the campus. “It was shocking that it was only the first week of school. It makes you wonder if he had trouble adjusting,” says Kerri Buschbacher. “Did someone see the warning signs but ignore them?” said Holly Connors.

Sadness is the overwhelming theme during these somber times. Though Curiel’s cause of death is still unknown, many students have speculated whether or not the 18-year-old had trouble fitting in here at Mason.

Anyone who wishes to make a gesture to remember Trevor may do so by making a donation to: The Youth Philanthropy Council, Care of: Heritage Funeral Home, 528 North Main Street, Hutchinson, Kansas 67501.

Students wishing to talk about this event are urged to contact the Counseling Center in SUB I, Room 364.