Tragic Loss At Dartmouth: The Story Of Won Jang And The Hazing Investigation

The sudden death of a young student brings to light serious concerns about fraternity practices. Won Jang, a 20-year-old student at Dartmouth College, was found dead in the Connecticut River, raising questions about his last hours alive. He was last seen at a social gathering at the Ledyard Canoe Club, and after not showing up for a planned engagement, he was reported missing to the police.

Chief Charlie Dennis of the Hanover Police Department has indicated that part of the investigation will focus on whether the gathering was an official fraternity event. Anonymous emails received suggest that hazing or alcohol may have been involved, but the truth will only emerge once toxicology reports are available, which could take several months.

The search for Jang involved local law enforcement, fire departments, and rescue teams. His personal belongings were found near the dock, suggesting he had not left the river area. Tragically, his body was recovered just before 7:30 p.m., close to where he was last seen. Although preliminary investigations show no signs of foul play, the cause of his death remains uncertain, prompting further scrutiny into the circumstances surrounding it.

Who was Won Jang?

Won Jang was an accomplished undergraduate student pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering at Dartmouth College. His involvement in the academic community was extensive; he served as a project manager at the DALI Lab and was a research assistant at the Thayer School of Engineering. Additionally, he was a member of the Beta Alpha Omega fraternity and participated in the TuckLAB entrepreneurship program.

Jang was also dedicated to fostering inclusivity on campus, acting as an international student mentor for the Office of Pluralism and Leadership. Dean Scott Brown expressed that Won passionately engaged in opportunities that Dartmouth offered, showcasing his enthusiasm for both academics and personal growth.

Students affected by this tragic loss have access to counseling services to help cope with the emotional fallout. The Dartmouth Student Mental Health Union is also available for peer support, emphasizing the importance of community during such challenging times.

Key Takeaways

This heart-wrenching incident highlights the urgent need for universities to reassess their policies on hazing and alcohol consumption in Greek life. It also underlines the critical role of community and support systems in helping students navigate the aftermath of such tragedies.