Truett McConnell University mourns student found dead inside campus apartment

Truett McConnell University in Cleveland, Georgia, is mourning one of its students found dead inside a campus apartment Sunday.

“With heavy hearts, we confirm the death of a TMU student yesterday on campus. Our community is heartbroken, and our prayers are with the student's family, friends, classmates, and all who are grieving,” the university said in a statement on Facebook Monday.

Cleveland Police Chief Jeff Shoemaker told Now Georgia that a deceased male student was found inside the campus apartment on Sunday evening after officers responded to a 911 call about an unresponsive person around 5:18 p.m.

The case is still being investigated, but authorities did not suspect foul play, Shoemaker added.

Cleveland authorities did not release the student's name.

Truett McConnell University also said it was withholding the student's name out of respect for his family. “We are supporting the family and will continue to honor their privacy. Out of respect for them, we are not releasing the student's name or additional details at this time,” the university said.

“We are working with authorities and will share additional information as appropriate and with the family's wishes in mind. Because this is an active investigation, we ask that everyone refrain from speculation and from sharing unverified information, out of respect for the family and those who are grieving.”

The private Christian liberal arts university further noted that it has been providing support to the wider school community and asked for prayers for the late student’s family and the campus.

“We are providing counseling, pastoral care, and other support to students, faculty and staff affected by this loss. We are grateful for the prayers and kindness of our neighbors, alumni and friends, and we ask that you keep the family and our campus in your prayers,” officials said. "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

At a recent convocation marking the launch of the new academic year, TMU President Larry Lyon said he wants the university to be known for its faithfulness. Pointing to 1 Corinthians 4:1-2, Lyon said believers are called to be servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God, noting that “it is required that managers be found faithful.” 

“There is nothing greater for you and I to do than to make Christ known,” Lyon said. “We will be known as those who are faithful to Christ, that we hold firm to His word, that we serve others, that we love God and we love others, and we make disciples.”