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ST. PAUL, Minn. (KMSP) - Police are investigating the death of a 20-year-old sophomore student at a fraternity house on the University of Minnesota St. Paul campus Wednesday morning.
At 5 a.m., officers were called to the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity house on the 2000 block of Carter Avenue on a report of an unconscious male, according to St. Paul Police Department spokesperson Steve Linders. When officers arrived, they found a deceased 20-year-old man inside the house.
The University of Minnesota confirmed the man is a student.
"We are saddened to learn of the death of one of our students," Interim Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Maggie Towle said in a statement.
The Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity says the student was a member of the fraternity, according to a press release.
“As we grieve the loss of this young man, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones, as well as to our brothers in the University of Minnesota chapter,” said Rex Martin, CEO of Alpha Gamma Rho, in a press release. “The depths of their grief are unimaginable, and we will to do anything we can to support them at this difficult time. We are grateful for the support the University has provided.”
The homicide unit responded to the scene, which Linders said is standard procedure whenever a "seemingly healthy" person is found deceased.
Preliminary investigation shows no sign of foul play and the death does not appear to be related to hazing, Linders said.
Several people who were at the house at the time were brought to police headquarters for questioning and are cooperating with police.
The Ramsey County Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of death. The death remains under investigation.
"The St. Paul Police Department is leading the investigation of this death," Towle said in her statement. "They will handle any related questions. During this time of need, support and counseling is available to any members of the University community who need it. Students are encouraged to contact Boynton Health or Student Counseling Services for assistance."
Alpha Gamma Rho is a professional-social agricultural fraternity with 71 chapters nationwide. The chapter at the U of M started in 1917. Currently, there are 30 collegiate brothers at the chapter with more than 1,000 alumni.