Authorities in Lafayette are investigating the death of a 19-year-old man whose body was discovered inside a campus building at Purdue University earlier this week.
According to the Tippecanoe County Coroner’s Office, the body was found Wednesday afternoon at the top of a stairwell inside the university’s Physics Building. Coroner Carrie Costello said the area where the man was discovered was near a door designated for authorized personnel and not frequently used by students or staff.
Investigators reported that the man was found with a bag over his head. Preliminary autopsy findings indicate the cause of death was asphyxia, though officials emphasized that toxicology results and additional forensic analysis are still pending. Authorities have not yet publicly confirmed the man’s identity, and DNA testing is being used to make a positive identification.
Police were initially alerted after a request for a welfare check involving a student. Officers with Purdue University Police Department began searching campus buildings tied to the individual’s class schedule. Capt. Song Kang said officers located the body around 5:25 p.m. during that search.
The incident has prompted concern within the campus community as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the death. University officials have reminded students that support resources are available, including the national 988 crisis hotline for anyone experiencing emotional distress.
Authorities say the investigation remains active as they await further medical and forensic results.