San Diego, CA – A tragic incident unfolded at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) on March 19, 2025, when an individual was found dead outside the Muir Biology Building. Reports indicate that the discovery was made around 5 p.m., prompting a significant police presence at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased, and university officials have confirmed that the individual was not a student.
According to sources, an eyewitness reported a heavy police response in the vicinity of the Muir Biology Building at approximately 5 p.m. Following inquiries from concerned students and faculty, UC San Diego University Communications issued an official statement via email to The Guardian at 7:30 p.m., acknowledging the tragic death but withholding further details out of respect for the deceased.
The email read:
“While much of the information related to the incident is not known at present, out of respect for the deceased, we are keeping details private at this time.”
Shortly before the official university statement, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Dean of the School of Biological Sciences, Kit Pogliano, sent an email to faculty, staff, and students affiliated with the biology department. The message confirmed the death and reassured recipients that there was “no threat to the campus community.”
Despite these assurances, the incident has left students and staff in a state of shock, raising concerns about mental health resources and campus safety.
At this time, details surrounding the cause of death remain undisclosed. Authorities have not specified whether foul play was involved or if the case is being investigated as a suicide. The identity of the deceased has not been made public, and the UCSD Guardian has been unable to verify any further specifics.
Local law enforcement and campus security officials are actively investigating the circumstances leading up to the incident. The university has urged students to respect the privacy of those affected and to rely on official updates from UCSD administration and law enforcement agencies.
The UCSD community has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, with students and faculty emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness. Tragic events such as these highlight the necessity for accessible mental health services and open discussions about emotional well-being within academic institutions.
The university has reminded students and faculty that counseling and psychological support services are available for anyone in need. UCSD’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) can be contacted at (858) 534-3755, providing confidential support and crisis intervention for students struggling with emotional distress.
In the wake of this tragic event, UCSD encourages students and staff to utilize available mental health resources and to support one another through this difficult time. Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the UCSD Police Department or local authorities.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more details become available.
For those experiencing distress, mental health resources are available:
- UCSD Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): (858) 534-3755
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741
The university community remains in mourning, emphasizing the importance of compassion, understanding, and collective support during this difficult time.
