Body found in Sehome Arboretum

University Police Chief Randy Stegmeier announced to the WWU community in a Sunday night e-mail that a body had been found in the Sehome Arboretum. According to the announcement, police believe that the body had suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The text of the announcement:

To the campus community:

The body of a Western Washington University student was found near the observation tower at Sehome Arboretum on Sunday, Jan. 17. The student has been identified as Matthew Lee Stanley; a freshman from Puyallup. His body was located about 2:30 p.m. by other students who were hiking in the wooded arboretum. Police believe Stanley had suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound, although official confirmation will not be made until the medical examiner has conducted an autopsy.

Counseling Center staff members are, and will continue to be, available to any students seeking assistance. The Counseling Center, located in Old Main 540, can be reached at 360-650-3164. After hours, the Counselor on Call can be reached at 360-650-3555.

Support for faculty and staff is available through the Washington State Employee Assistance Program. They can be reached at 877-313-4455, or 866-704-6364 after hours.

Western Washington University continues to be a safe campus. There is no threat to the campus community.

Randy Stegmeier, Chief

Western Washington University Police