Student's Body Discovered in University of Chicago Dorm Room

Officials say he had been dead for about a week.

Photo Removed
Complex Original

Blank pixel used during image takedowns

Photo Removed

Authorities say a University of Chicago student's decomposing body was found inside of his dorm room.

According to ABC Chicago, the body of Nicholas Barnes, 20, was discovered on Saturday afternoon inside of the International House following other students' complaints of a foul odor. Officials say that Barnes, a third-year student, had been dead for about a week. 

Autopsy results were inconclusive, and while the Cook County medical examiner's office said that toxicology reports are pending, they do not believe Barnes' death was a suicide.

The University of Chicago said there is no evidence of foul play, either. "University staff are making every effort to understand the circumstances surrounding Nicholas' death," vice president for campus life and student services Karen Warren Coleman said in an email to students. 

In a separate email to students, staff and faculty, undergraduate Dean of Students Susan Art called Barnes, a Germanic studies major, "an excellent student" who was "admired by faculty and peers alike." 

ABC Chicago adds that the university was planning a memorial service while Barnes' family made funeral arrangements in his hometown of Pittsburgh.

[via ABC Chicago]

Latest in Pop Culture