A University of Virginia student died early Monday after falling from the roof of the physics building, according to UVa officials, who are calling the event a "tragic accident."
First-year student Thomas W. "Tom" Gilliam IV fell from the four-story building late Sunday night, according to officials.
The building had been locked, but someone "compromised" the lock on a side door, according to UVa police. Gilliam entered through that door, then let others in through the building's main entrance.
"We are aware that there is a group of University students who try to enter secured spaces on Grounds as part of a challenge," read a university police statement. "They do so illegally and at great risk to their personal safety."
A website that chronicles students' illicit exploration of Grounds describes the view from the upper roof of the physics building as "amazing" with a direct view of Monticello.
The site, called The Bold and The Ruthless has the motto "Carpe Noctem, Amici Mei," which in English roughly means "Seize the night, my friend."
The students headed for the roof.
"Unfortunately, with the snow and rain on Saturday and Sunday, the roof of the physics building was especially wet and slippery," the police statement reads. "When Mr. Gilliam tried to walk along a part of the shingled roof he was unable to keep his footing and fell 40 feet to the concrete below."
Officials don't think foul play or alcohol were involved, and they don't believe it was a suicide. The body will be autopsied, according to UVa spokeswoman Carol Wood.
After the fall, he was taken to the emergency department at the University of Virginia Medical Center, where he died, according to Lt. Melissa Fielding of the UVa police.
"Today is a day of great sadness for the family and friends of Tom Gilliam -and for the entire university community," said UVa president Teresa A.
Sullivan in a statement. "By all accounts, Tom was a bright light. Those who knew him thought him destined to lead an interesting life that would include his deep faith, his interest in caring for those less fortunate, and world politics."
Gilliam was a member of the First Year Council and had hoped to become a resident adviser next year.
"We mourn the loss of Tom, the promises unfilled, and offer prayers for his family and friends as they begin to deal with their unbearable loss," Sullivan said.
UVa police are investigating the death.
The Office of the Dean of Students has moved to provide support to Gilliam's friends and family members. Anyone needing support should call the dean's office at 924-7133.
Gilliam and other students who have died in the past year will be remembered 4 p.m. Friday at the annual student memorial service.
The service's location hasn't yet been determined.
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