MTSU closes Tuesday after student died by suicide on campus, a vigil was held

Remark: This story has been updated with additional information.

Middle Tennessee State University is closed Tuesday following a death of a student at the university library on Monday, with counseling services available.

MTSU President Sidney McPhee announced Monday that he decided to cancel classes and close most offices and the library on Tuesday. According to recent university enrollment information for 2024-2025, the student population at MTSU is nearly 20,500.

“My hope is that our community will use this time to grieve and seek help,” McPhee said in his statement. “Essential services, including counseling resources, will remain open and available.”

Campus activities scheduled for Tuesday may proceed at the discretion of event organizers. Normal operations will resume Wednesday, McPhee’s statement said.

“I would like to express our deepest condolences on behalf of our entire community,” McPhee added. “Please reach out if you need any help or support. You are not alone.”

Murfreesboro police are leading the investigation into the student’s apparent death by suicide, spokesman Larry Flowers said in a news release Monday evening.

A “Pray for MTSU” vigil will be held Wednesday at 6 p.m. A flyer for the vigil organized by MTSUs Student Government Association invites people to join the University community for a “circle of support and reflection” for the James E. Walker Library.

SGA President Michai Mosby said he hopes the vigil will allow our community to “find comfort and support each other in strength,” according to McPhee’s statement.

The prayer vigil flyer urged the MTSU community to come together “to remember, support and stand in solidarity.”

“This vigil is a moment for everyone to come together in unity, share compassion and find strength,” the flyer said.

MTSU offers counseling services

The MTSU press release included the following details about accessing counseling services:

Student crisis support via MTSU Consulting Serviceslocated in Keathley University Center Room 322 is open to students on Tuesdays from 8am to 8pm;
The MTSU mobile crisis number is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-704-2651;
A three-digit suicide hotline is available 24 hours a day on 988;
Faculty and staff crisis support is available from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the Student Union Ballroom (Section B). Outside these times, teachers and staff can contact the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services at 615-898-2271;
Employees also have 24-hour support available through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offered by Optum Behavioral Health, at 855-437-3486.

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