Slippery Rock University officials confirmed Monday afternoon that a student died by suicide early Sunday morning.

Adam Zook, a senior communications major from Tyrone, died in his off-campus residence.

“Tragedies like Adam's death strike too often every day at colleges across the nation. Sadly, this national epidemic has reached our campus too many times. There are truly no words to fully capture the anguish that losses like this cause our community,” wrote Bill Behre, university president, on Sunday in a letter to university students, faculty and staff.

Zook was completing an internship in his major and was set to be the editor in chief of The Rocket in the fall, Behre wrote in the letter.

“I am personally struggling trying to make sense of this horrible news — I am not certain I ever will. I imagine many of you are struggling as well,” he wrote. “If you find yourself considering harming yourself in any way, please seek help immediately. Please, please don't let negative thoughts or self-doubt weigh on your mind unchecked. A one-time desperate decision often cannot be undone, and those you leave behind will miss you terribly.”

Zook tweeted “I'm sorry” along with a letter about his death by suicide on the social media platform Twitter. In the four-page letter, he apologized about its release via social media. He also addressed several people he knew and his mother and father.

Students on-campus or in the community this summer and need someone with whom to talk, contact Student Health Services at 724-738-2052 or Student Support at 724-738-2121. During the summer, these offices are open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

If students are away from campus, seek help through the Center for Community Resources of Butler County. Crisis support is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-292-3866 or text them at 62388. Faculty and staff should contact the State Employee Assistance Program 24/7 by calling 800-692-7459.

“My heart goes out to Adam's family and all of those who loved and cared for him,” Behre wrote.