SUNY New Paltz student found dead in dorm; no foul play, college says

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NEW PALTZ – A junior at SUNY New Paltz was found dead in his dormitory
room on campus Sunday afternoon.

University police responded to a 911 call and found Thomas O’Rourke,
a biology major from East Northport, New York, non-responsive. Police
believe there was no foul play or any threat to other members of the campus
community. A cause of death is pending.

“The death of a student is one of the most difficult issues a campus
community can deal with, and this is a time to come together to support
all who are affected by this loss, including the student’s friends
and family,” said college President Donald Christian.

Residence Life staff and counselors from the Psychological Counseling
Center were on the scene to provide grief counseling and assistance to
students who knew and lived with O’Rourke.

University Police and the Ulster County Medical Examiner’s Office
are continuing their investigation and request anyone with information
to call the police at 845-257-2222.