Editor's note: President Dennis Assanis and Vice President José-Luis Riera shared this message with the University community on August 28, 2024. On August 29, Newark Police Department released the name of the victim, identified as Noelia Gomez, 18, of Clark, New Jersey. Her obituary and service information can be found on the Walter Johnson Funeral Home website.

Dear UD community,

Late last night, a first-year University of Delaware student died in a traffic accident near campus, which was witnessed by many of her friends and classmates. Incidents such as this are unimaginably tragic. We cannot express enough how sorry we are for the family, friends, and greater community as we are all so deeply shaken by the sudden loss of one of our own. Our hearts are very heavy today.

We know that many students, parents and others in our community join us in expressing grief and grave concern. At this time, we are not releasing the student’s name out of respect for the family’s privacy. Especially in a moment like this, we must all come together, to lean on each other, and to do so with extra kindness and empathy. Together, we are stronger, and we must live this truth in the coming days. We are one Blue Hen community. 

As a new academic year begins, we want to remind returning members of our community and inform all new Blue Hens of the services available here at UD. More information about support resources appears at the bottom of this email. Additionally, safety is our paramount concern at UD, so we encourage you to make yourself familiar with the services offered by University of Delaware Police and other units. 

Please know that the University is here for you. Thank you for being such a caring and supportive community.

Sincerely,

Dennis Assanis, President

José-Luis Riera, Vice President for Student Life

Resources and support

For any student in need of support or assistance, Student Life provides a variety of resources:

• Today (Aug. 28) until 4:30 p.m., Student Advocacy and Support and Center for Counseling and Student Development (CCSD) staff members will be in the South Academy Residence Hall to support students and answer questions. 

• Today (Aug. 28) from 5-6:30 p.m., CCSD is extending drop-in hours for students in Warner Hall, 1st floor. Counseling and support staff, as well as religious and spiritual leaders, will be available.

• Today (Aug. 28), and every weekday, 9 a.m.– 4 p.m., CCSD offers drop-in hours for students at Warner Hall.

Student Life staff are in contact with the Newark Police Department Victim Services to ensure connection to community supports and UD resources for student witnesses.

For ongoing support:

TimelyCare — A virtual health and wellbeing platform available 24/7 for UD students

Center for Counseling and Student Development — Provides individual and group counseling for UD students. New clients should visit Warner Hall between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays; returning clients can call 302-831-2141 to schedule an appointment.

Student Advocacy and Support — Available to assist students who need support navigating University resources or complex issues. Call 302-831-8939 or email studentsupport@udel.edu to schedule an appointment.

ComPsych® GuidanceResources® — Mental health support for UD benefited employees. Access services through the link or call 877-527-4742 for support.

Additional safety and wellness resources — Information about UD Police, Student Health Services and other services