Police Deny Bullying Led To OU Student's Suicide
The investigation continues into the apparent suicide of a gay, 19-year-oid Oakland University student. The body of sophomore Corey Jackson of Warren was found by two students on a walk Tuesday in a wooded area of campus.
Jackson lived in a campus dorm, and his friends say he seemed upbeat and happy, telling police there was absolutely no indication that he had been considering killing himself.
WWJ spoke with Campus Police Chief Sam Lucido, who said his investigation found no evidence that bullying played a role on the teen's death.
"We have not found anything -- absolutely nothing -- related to bullying or harassment in this matter," Lucido said.""We have talked with people who I would classify as being very close acquaintances, and they're confirming that that did not occur," he said.
Lucido would not comment on whether Jackson had left a suicide note.
"Any death in the campus community diminishes us all," wrote OU President Gary Russi, in a letter to students.
"We know there will be no quick antidote for the pain that Corey's sudden death has caused, and that only time can heal the sorrow felt by his family and friends. In our mourning, I am hopeful that we will not focus on the manner of Corey's death, but rather celebrate the life he lived and the people he touched...I encourage all in the campus community to come together and comfort those who need our support at this sad time."
Jackson's death came one day before Spirit Day, a nationally designated day to remember gay teens who recently committed suicide around the country.
A notice on the OU website encouranges students struggling with news of Jackson's death to visit Graham Health Center, where counselors are prepared to provide grief counseling. More information is available at (248) 370-2341, e-mailing to health@oakland.edu.
A candlelight vigil was planned on Wednesday at 10 p.m. at the Bear Lake bridge on campus.
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