After a long night of searching for a missing Denison University student, officials found the Chicago-area native dead on Tuesday.
21-year-old Wendell Jackson, a junior at the university, was found at the school’s Biological Reserve, a favorite hiking spot for students and residents.
According to Licking County Deputy Coroner Jeff Lee, Jackson had hanged himself from a tree. The coroner ruled the death a suicide.
Jackson was last seen alive Sunday evening while studying at an academic hall on campus, according to Ginny Sharkey, a spokeswoman for Denison. A friend found a note in his room Monday afternoon and alerted campus security. Officials did not disclose the note’s contents.
Jackson, who was majoring in athletic training, also volunteered for Hope Kitchen. He helped out with the men’s soccer program, worked with the Big Red Fitness Club and served as a resident assistant, among other activities.
“We are all incredibly saddened by Wendell’s tragic death,” wrote Denison President Adam Weinberg in a statement issued today. “He was a bright, active and engaged person.”
Classes were canceled on Tuesday in light of the incident.
