Editor’s note: This is an updated version of a story published originally at 8 this morning.
By GEORGE GRAHAM
and SUZANNE McLAUGHLIN
AMHERST - A University of Massachusetts student who fell to his death this morning from the 17th floor of a dormitory in the Southwest residential area has been identified as Liam O’Donnelly, 20, of Hingham.
A sophomore, he was studying resource economics at UMass.
UMass Amherst Police responded to a report of someone jumping from the John Quincy Adams residence hall around 3:30 a.m., said campus spokesman Edward Blaguszewski. O’Donnelly lived in a single-person room.
The case is being investigated by campus police and state troopers assigned to the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office, who have jurisdiction over unattended deaths.
Renee Steese, the first assistant district attorney, said, “There are no indications of foul play.”
She would not comment further on the investigation.
Blaguszewski said that an outreach meeting was held this afternoon in the dormitory to inform students about the death.
“This is a disturbing, troubling, and sad time,” he said. “Our condolences go to Liam’s family and friends.”
Dean of Students Jo-Anne T. Vanin sent an e-mail to the student body today informing it of the death.
She said that members of the campus community seeking support at this time are advised to speak with residence hall staff members or call her office at (413) 545-2684 or University Mental Health Services at (413) 545-2337.

masslive.com