MTSU closes Tuesday after student commits suicide on campus, vigil held

Note: This story has been updated with additional information.

Middle Tennessee State University is closed on Tuesday following the death of a student at the university library on Monday and provides counseling services.

MTSU President Sidney McPhee announced on Monday that it had decided to cancel classes and close most offices and the library on Tuesday. According to the latest 2024-2025 university enrollment information, MTSU’s student population is nearly 20,500.

“I hope our community will use this time to grieve and reach out for support resources,” McPhee said in a statement. “Essential services, including counseling resources, will remain open and available.”

On-campus activities scheduled for Tuesday may continue at the discretion of event organizers. Normal operations will resume on Wednesday, McPhee’s statement said.

“I want to extend our deepest condolences on behalf of our entire community,” McPhee added in a statement. “If you need help or support, please contact us. You are not alone.”

Murfreesboro police are investigating the apparent death of a student by suicide, spokesman Larry Flowers said in a Monday evening news release.

The “Pray for MTSU” vigil will be held on Wednesday at 6 p.m. Leaflet informing about the vigil organized by MTSU Student Government Association invites people to join the university community to create a “circle of support and reflection” in front of the James E. Walker Library.

According to McPhee’s statement, SGA President Michai Mosby expressed hope that the vigil would allow our community to “find comfort and support each other in strength.”

The prayer vigil flyer called on the MTSU community to come together “to remember, support and show solidarity.”

“This vigil is a moment for all to unite, share compassion and find strength,” the flyer said.

MTSU offers consulting services

The MTSU press release provided the following details regarding access to counseling services:

Crisis support for students through MTSU Consulting Serviceslocated in the Keathley University Center, room 322 will be open to students on Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.;
The MTSU Mobile Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-704-2651;
The three-digit suicide hotline is available 24 hours a day on 988;
Emergency assistance for faculty and staff will be available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom (Section B). Outside of these hours, faculty and staff may contact Center for Counseling and Psychological Services at 615-898-2271;
Employees also have access to 24/7 assistance through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provided by Optum Behavioral Health by calling 855-437-3486.

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