HANOVER, N.H. (WCAX) – Police are investigating whether alcohol and potentially hazing were connected to the death of a Dartmouth College student whose body was found in the Connecticut River. That comes after multiple anonymous emails were sent to the college and news outlets.
WCAX also received that anonymous tip alleging that a fraternity hazing event and heavy drinking took place just prior to the deadly incident.
Search crews found the body of Dartmouth sophomore Won Jang, 20, submerged in the water near a popular campus swimming dock Sunday evening. According to police, Jang and a group of students went swimming in the river Saturday night. Authorities say the group dispersed quickly after a sudden rainstorm.
Multiple agencies in New Hampshire and Vermont began searching for Jang Sunday afternoon when he did not show up for an appointment.
Police say they are aware of more than one anonymous email detailing the events that took place earlier in the day.
“So we have received some emails that were forwarded to us from the college that were sent anonymously listing some of those concerns that hazing or potentially alcohol may be involved, so that will certainly be part of our investigation as we move forward through this process,” Hanover Police Chief Charlie Dennis said.
Dennis said police do not suspect foul play.
“Certainly, this is a tragic event. Certainly, our condolences go out to the family and also to the friends and the other people at the college. We are looking for any information we can get to help us do a thorough and timely investigation,” the chief said.
The college released a statement that reads, in part: “We understand that this is very difficult news for our community and encourage you to seek support whether you need a listening ear or guidance in navigating this challenging time. We have been in touch with Won’s fraternity brothers and other friends.”
Hanover police say they have interviewed multiple students as part of the investigation. They are encouraging anyone with information about the incident to contact police.