Student Death at Sawyer Building

A tragic event unfolded last night at the Suffolk University Sawyer Building that resulted in the death of Suffolk senior, Eric Christo.

President McCarthy sent out an email to students and faculty that stated, “I am deeply saddened to report the death of a student, Eric Christo. Eric was a senior Finance major in the Sawyer Business School. A resident of East Cambridge, he began his studies at Suffolk in 2008 and earned Dean's List recognition for his academic accomplishments. He was expected to complete his degree in May. All of the Suffolk community sends its deepest condolences to Eric's family and to all those who knew and loved him.”

Late in the evening, between 10 and 11pm, several students and faculty witnessed Suffolk and Boston police rushing about the area. Suffolk’s Office of Public Affairs confirmed that, “A preliminary investigation by the Boston Police indicates that it was an apparent suicide.”

Most, but not all, people who die by suicide exhibit warning signs, it is important to recognize the factors that put people at risk and respond to them. “The factors that lead to suicide are complicated but in 90% of cases, the person who commits suicide is suffering from severe depression or other mental health disorder that is often unseen,” said Lynda Field of the University Counseling Center, “it is important for individuals to seek help and know about resources that are provided both nationally and on campus. When someone dies in such a tragic manner it creates not only grief but can also be traumatizing for the entire community.  We encourage everyone to not minimize their emotional responses but rather seek support and adaptive ways to cope.”

Counseling services are available through the University Counseling Center, which can be reached at 617-573-8226, for those members of our community who would welcome support at this difficult time.

National Suicide Hotline #: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

http://www-nehc.med.navy.mil/downloads/healthyliv/SuicidePrevention/Coping_After_Loss.pdf

The Jed Foundation:   http://www.jedfoundation.org/