11/10/97

ATHENS, Ohio -- Ryan Bommer, a first-year student from Bryan, Ohio, collapsed in the hallway at his East Green residence at approximately midnight. Ohio University Police and SEOEMS (Southeast Ohio Emergency Medical Service) were called to Read Hall and transported Bommer to O'Bleness Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1:19 a.m. by Dr. James Muntean, Athens County coroner on duty.

The cause of death is unknown, said Joel Rudy, vice president for student affairs and dean of students. He said no foul play is suspected at this time, and an autopsy has been ordered at the Franklin County Morgue. Results are not expected for at least several days.

Rudy said Bommer's parents were notified and were en route to Athens this morning. An older brother, Brandon, who is an Ohio University student living off-campus, also was notified and was in attendance at the hospital.

Rudy said the university this morning was offering counseling services to Read Hall students and others who request counseling.