A in a Centennial Halls residence hall died from an accidental overdose, vice chancellor of student life Liliana Rodriguez said in an email to the DU community Thursday afternoon.
Jonathan Winnefeld, 19, was found unresponsive around 7:15 a.m. Thursday, DU’s student newspaper reported. The Office of the Medical Examiner said he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Despite Rodriguez’s email, the medical examiner said the cause and manner of death is still pending investigation.
Rodriguez acknowledged that students may be struggling with the death and offered a number of on-campus resources to help them:
• The Health & Counseling Center provides many medical and mental health services. (phone: 303-871-2205; Ritchie Center, 2240 E. Buchtel Blvd., Suite 3N)
• Employee Assistance Program provides counseling and support for all University of Denver employees.
• Campus Safety, in addition to 24/7 service on campus, offers training to the community on how to respond to emergency situations. (Morgan Sellers, Community Resource Officer; phone: 303-871-6803)
• Ombuds Office is a confidential and informal resource for any campus community member who may be experiencing difficulties navigating their time at the University. (Jenna Brown, Ombuds; phone: 303-871-4712)
• Chaplain Gary Brower works with all members of the DU community on issues ranging from interfaith dialogue to spiritual care and counseling. (phone: 303-871-4488; Driscoll Student Center, South, 2050 E. Evans Ave.)
• Pioneers CARE (Communicate, Assess, Refer, Educate) outreach program helps find solutions for students experiencing academic, social and crisis situations including mental health concerns. (phone: 303-871-2400)
• Any student concerned about their safety or the safety of others are urged to call 911 or Campus Safety at 303-871-3000.
