Kyle E. Knecht, a senior from Circleville, was found dead Thursday in his bedroom in Neil Hall, a new university residence hall at 249 W. 10th Avenue.
According to a statement released by the Office of Student Affairs, a suitemate discovered Knecht’s body at 3 p. m. The official cause of death will not be determined until the University Police Department and the Franklin County Coroner’s Office have completed their investigations.
“It appears to be accidental,” the statement said.
The Franklin County Coroner’s Office stated that the autopsy was inconclusive and they are waiting for the toxicology report, which will be available in 10 days.
Knecht was enrolled in the College of Engineering where he was pursuing a major in electrical and computer engineering. He transferred to OSU in Autumn 2003 and had previously attended DeVry University in Columbus. Knecht was 21 years old.
“Counselors from the university’s Counseling and Consultation Services office were on site Thursday evening to talk with residents of the Worthington-Neil housing complex and are available to any student during regular hours at their offices in the Younkin Success Center,” the statement said. Students can call 292-5766 to arrange an appointment.
“We are very saddened by Kyle’s death,” said Steve Kremer, assistant vice president for housing and residence education. “The loss of a young life is tragic and very hard for everyone who is close to the person. All members of the Ohio State community mourn with Kyle’s family and friends.”
