NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Authorities are investigating after a student was found dead inside a Vanderbilt University residence hall on Friday, April 12.
According to the Metro Nashville Police Department, officers responded to a call labeled as a “corpse/D.O.A.” incident at approximately 11:30 a.m. CDT at 2401 Vanderbilt Place, the address of Branscomb Quadrangle, a student housing complex. Witnesses reported seeing multiple MNPD and Vanderbilt University Police Department (VUPD) vehicles outside the building, including detectives with the homicide unit.
Police activity appeared to be centered around Scales Hall, one of the residence halls in the Branscomb complex. Students passing through the area described a visible law enforcement presence and reported seeing a body bag on the third floor of the building. Despite the significant police response, the university had not issued a campus-wide notification regarding the incident as of 2:30 p.m.
By mid-afternoon, crime scene investigators, VUPD officers, and a forensic medical examiner arrived at the scene. Around 4 p.m., two medical transport vehicles entered the Branscomb courtyard. A stretcher was brought into Scales Hall shortly after, and by 4:49 p.m., the deceased individual had been transported from the building. All emergency vehicles had cleared the scene by 5:05 p.m.
Hours later, at 9:03 p.m., Vanderbilt’s Office of Student Affairs sent an email to students confirming the tragic news. The message, signed by Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students G.L. Black, stated that an undergraduate student had passed away in their campus residence. The university extended its condolences to the student’s friends and family and encouraged the campus community to seek support during this difficult time.
“As we move into the final weeks of the academic year, this time may feel especially challenging,” the email read. “It’s important to both lean on one another and seek out professional support when needed. A simple check-in or kind word can go a long way in supporting those around you.”
The identity of the student and the cause of death have not been publicly released. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not indicated any threat to public safety.
Students seeking support are encouraged to contact the University Counseling Center or access resources provided through Student Care Coordination.