USM student dies after falling from fifth floor of parking garage

A University of Southern Mississippi student has died after falling from the fifth floor of the parking garage on Wednesday.

“This morning, our hearts are breaking as we regretfully inform you of the death of a Southern Miss student following last night’s incident near the parking garage on the Hattiesburg campus,” USM President Rodney Bennett and Vice President for Student Affairs Dee Dee Anderson wrote in a statement released to students. “As longtime university staff members and as the parents of college-aged students, we sympathize with the significant and serious nature of stress and anxiety felt by students. We want each of you to know that you have significant value, we value your health and well-being, and we care for you.”

Witnesses at the scene stated that they saw somebody run and jump off as they were getting ready to leave.

The incident is still being investigated by the University Police Department and no criminal activity is suspected at this time.