🚨 Missing Vermont College Student Lia Smith Confirmed Dead, Medical Examiner Determines Manner of Death
Authorities in Vermont have confirmed that Lia Smith, the 21-year-old Middlebury College student who was reported missing earlier this month, has been found deceased. The Vermont Chief Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Smith died by suicide, according to a statement released by the Vermont State Police on Friday, October 24.
Smith was reported missing by her father on Sunday, October 19, after she was last seen on campus two days earlier. Her body was discovered on Thursday, October 23, in Cornwall, Vermont, near The Knoll — Middlebury College’s organic farm — by members of the Vermont State Police and Rescue Team.
Following the autopsy, officials confirmed her identity and ruled the manner of death as suicide. The Vermont Medical Examiner’s Office has not released additional details out of respect for the family.
📍 Middlebury College Responds
Middlebury College President Ian Baucom shared a message with the campus community on Saturday expressing deep sorrow over Smith’s passing.
“As president, and far more as a fellow parent, I ache for them. This is a profound loss that nobody should have to endure,” Baucom wrote.
He praised Smith as a “remarkable person” who contributed greatly to the college community.
“She was a diver on our Women’s Swimming and Diving team, a member of our Chess and Japanese clubs, and an articulate advocate of transgender rights. Her academic interests were broad, and she was pursuing a double major in computer science and statistics. She was a gift to us, and we are so grateful that she was — and will always remain — a member of our Middlebury family.”
Baucom also thanked Student Affairs staff for offering compassionate support to Smith’s family, friends, and classmates, adding that the college would continue to provide resources to those affected.
🕊️ A Small Community in Mourning
Students had joined authorities and volunteers in the search for Smith in the days leading up to the discovery. Many expressed shock and sadness over the loss.
“We’re a really small community,” said Middlebury senior Lucy Schembre in an interview with NBC5 during the search.
“Even if you don’t know someone personally, you definitely know somebody who knows them, and you’ve definitely seen them around. It’s very jarring for somebody who’s supposed to be here, to not be here.”
📞 Mental Health Resources
This case has renewed conversations about mental health and campus wellness. If you or someone you know is struggling, confidential help is available:
- Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7 across the U.S.).
- Chat online at 988lifeline.org
- Students at Middlebury College can access on-campus counseling and mental health services through the Center for Health and Wellness.
🔗 Source
👉 What You Can Do
- Share mental health resources and awareness posts to help others who may be struggling.
- Encourage open conversations about suicide prevention and support for college students.
- Check in with friends, family, and classmates — a simple message can make a difference.
Visit CanadaMissing.ca for verified updates on missing person and mental health awareness stories across North America.
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