Statement by Charles W. Steger on the death of Brian McCloskey

I know that I speak for the campus community when I say that we are deeply saddened by the death of Virginia Tech student Brian Joseph McCloskey, a freshman in University Studies from Olney, Maryland. We send our sincere condolences and profound sorrow to Brian’s family and friends.

The cause of Brian’s death is unknown at this time and Blacksburg Police are continuing to investigate. However, I am also deeply disturbed that this death may not have been accidental. It is plainly unacceptable and outrageous that someone from the campus community experiences harm in this way. We trust that police authorities will quickly resolve the cause of death.

We are deeply committed to the safety of our community, particularly our students. Every effort is being made to identify individual(s) responsible and resolve this tragic death.

Charles W. Steger
President