Purdue Suicide, Cameron Sible West Lafayette IN Death: Family members of a Purdue University student discovered him dead Thursday afternoon inside a vehicle parked in the Wood Street parking garage, authorities said.
Purdue University Police Capt. Song Kang said relatives had traveled to campus expecting to celebrate the student’s upcoming graduation. Instead, they became concerned when they were unable to reach him and began searching for his whereabouts. The family later located him at approximately 4:20 p.m. Thursday inside the parked car.
The student has been identified as Cameron Sible, 22, of Burr Ridge, Illinois. He was a senior at Purdue University majoring in civil engineering, according to university officials.
Purdue University spokesman Trevor Peters confirmed Sible’s academic standing and expressed condolences on behalf of the institution. “We are saddened any time we experience a student’s death and offer our condolences and support to his family, fellow students, friends and all who are affected,” Peters said. He added that the university is providing support resources for those impacted by the loss.
Tippecanoe County Coroner Carrie Costello said a forensic autopsy is scheduled for next week to determine the official cause and manner of death. While formal findings are pending, preliminary scanner traffic on Thursday indicated the death is being investigated as a suspected suicide.
University officials emphasized the availability of mental health support services for students and staff affected by the tragedy. Peters reminded the campus community that Purdue Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available by phone at 765-494-6995 and online through the university’s mental health portal. He also noted that individuals in immediate crisis can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The incident has left members of the Purdue community in shock, particularly as it comes at a time when many students are preparing for end-of-semester milestones and graduation ceremonies. University officials said they will continue to provide updates as the investigation proceeds while prioritizing support for those affected.