Saint Michael’s College Saint Michael’s College in Colchester released the following statement early this afternoon: "It is with great sadness that Saint Michael's College communicates the tragic news of the death of one of its students. Jeremiah Collins, from Bridgewater, Massachusetts, a member of the Class of 2017 and a business major, was found dead early this morning in the Gilbrook Natural Area near the College campus. Winooski police responded and the cause of death is under investigation, but no foul play is suspected.
"The student’s family has been notified by police and members of the Student Life staff have spoken to them as well. College staff members met with Jerry’s roommates and his immediate faculty.
"The College Community’s thoughts and prayers are with Jerry’s family and friends. Counseling and grief support are available through the Bergeron Wellness Center, which has extended its hours this evening, as well as through the Office of Campus Ministry. Such support will be essential during this difficult time for those who knew Jerry and for others in the close-knit community."
Later reports indicated the student's death was self-inflicted. The state's Medical Examiner still needs to make a final determination.
Obituary
Jeremiah J. Collins, 21, of Bridgewater passed away on September 14, 2016 in Colchester, VT. He was the loving son of Joseph (Jerry) and Anne (Galvin) Collins of Bridgewater.
He was a graduate of Bridgewater-Raynham High School, Class of 2013 and a senior at St. Michael's College in Colchester, VT. Jerry enjoyed sports, music, playing the guitar, but mostly spending time with his family and friends. Jerry lit up every room he entered and shared his love and laughter with everyone. He had empathy and compassion for all, and was passionate about helping anyone in need.
Jeremiah is survived by his parents, Jerry and Anne Collins of Bridgewater; his brother, Matthew Collins of Bridgewater; his sister, Kathleen Collins of Bridgewater; his grandparents, William and Anne Galvin of Queensbury, N.Y. and Jeremiah and Irene Collins of Abington. He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
A funeral Mass held at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 103 Center St., Bridgewater on Monday, Sept. 19, 2016 at 10 a.m. Burial at St. Thomas Aquinas Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, Sept. 18, from 2 - 6 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Massachusetts) at www.namimass.org or 529 Main Street, Suite 1M17, Boston, MA, 02129. For guest book and online directions visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com. Prophett-Chapman Cole & Gleason 508-697-4332 -
Source: Saint Michael’s College 9.14.2016. Chapman Cole & Gleason 9.15.2016