USAFA — On Monday, the U.S. Air Force released a statement confirming that two First-Class cadets were found dead in the cadet area.
One cadet was found on Saturday afternoon, the other on Thursday morning. The Academy would not confirm if the deaths were related.
"These tragedies have caused incredible shock and pain throughout our USAFA family," said Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria, Air Force Academy Superintendent. "Right now we are all focused on taking care of the cadet's families and each other--our cadets, our faculty, our staff-- as we grieve this loss. We ask for everyone's patience and respect for the families' privacy at this time."
The circumstances surrounding the deaths are currently under investigation, but neither was COVID-19-related and foul play is not suspected in either case.
Academy leaders, the chaplain's office and mental health professionals are providing support and grief counseling to cadets, faculty and staff.
If you are in need of any health professionals guidance please look into the following options:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Hotline - 1-800-273-8255
Pikes Peak Mental Health - (719) 635-7000
Suicide Prevention Partnership Pikes Peak Region - (719) 596 5433
Military Crisis Line and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 1-800-273-8255 or VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat
Warriors First Hotline - 1-800-399-0560
Colorado Crisis Services - 1-844-493-TALK
Veteran Crisis Responder And Peer Mentoring Team - 1 800-661-6790
Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center - 1 800-772-7000
The is an ongoing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
