NIU student found dead in art building, no foul play suspected: school spokesman

DeKALB – Northern Illinois University officials confirmed a student was found dead Monday inside the university’s art building on the east side of campus due to an apparent medical crisis.

NIU spokesman Joe King on Monday said staff found the student in the art building. He said part of the building was closed briefly while NIU police and officials from the DeKalb County Coroner’s office investigated. King said the building will be open Tuesday.

The student’s identity has not been released to the public, and King did not disclose additional details surrounding the nature of the death. King said police don’t suspect foul play led to the student’s death.

“It was unfortunately a medical issue and he died,” King said. “And, unfortunately, someone found him this morning.”

King said the student’s family and next of kin were notified of the death Monday.

Officials with the DeKalb County Coroner’s Office were not available for comment Monday.

In an additional written statement, NIU officials said Monday the university is working to support the student’s family “during this difficult time.”

“The university is also in process of reaching out to and supporting the student’s faculty, classes and friends,” NIU officials wrote.

NIU Police Chief Darren Mitchell was not immediately available for comment. DeKalb Police Chief David Byrd said Monday that city police were aware of the death, but were not asked to help.