According to the Ithaca Police Department, preliminary autopsy results indicate that Ithaca College freshman William Jacobson's death was due to an accidental drowning. While the full autopsy report is not yet complete, police have ruled out foul play as the cause of death.
Jacobson was reported missing on the night of Monday, April 28, after having last been seen early the previous morning leaving an off-campus party. An extensive ground and aerial search was conducted by a number of local law enforcement and emergency services agencies. On Wednesday morning, his body was recovered by divers from the New York State Police in the Farm Road Pond on campus. The pond is located on the route he likely would have been taking to return to his Terrace 11 residence hall room.
"The outpouring of love and support that has been generated among the Ithaca College community in the wake of this tragedy has truly been remarkable," said Ithaca College President Peggy R. Williams. "Students, faculty, and staff -- those who knew Willie and those who only knew of him -- came together as one on Wednesday night to pay tribute to his memory and to support one another. We once again extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and to his many friends as they grieve over this loss."
Ithaca College will continue to provide support to students and other members of the campus community through the Counseling Center and the Office of the Chaplains.
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20080501221731738