The University of Michigan community is reeling after the heartbreaking death of 19-year-old student Lucas Mattson.
Lucas was last seen wandering alone in the freezing early hours of Friday morning, dressed only in a T-shirt and jeans, in the midst of record-low temperatures.
His disappearance sparked an urgent search that lasted over 15 hours before his body was tragically found.
Last Sightings and Search Efforts
Lucas was reportedly last seen around 1 a.m. on Friday on the 1700 block of Hill Street in Ann Arbor.
Despite the bitter cold, he was wearing only light clothing, putting him at extreme risk.
Concerned friends and family reported him missing later that afternoon, and police immediately issued an alert at 9 p.m., warning that he was endangered due to sub-zero temperatures, which had dropped to 0°F that night.
Officers and volunteers scoured the streets overnight, and the university community rallied to share photos and information.
Police had even circulated an image of Lucas in a khaki jumper, hoping to track him down.
Sadly, he was discovered around noon Saturday on the 1900 block of Cambridge Road—less than half a mile from where he was last seen.
Weather Conditions Compounded Danger
The extreme cold was worsened by Winter Storm Fern, which swept across more than 34 states, including Michigan, bringing heavy snow and treacherous conditions.
The storm not only made search efforts more challenging but also highlighted how perilous exposure can be in such freezing temperatures.
Police Statement and University Response
Ann Arbor Police reported that there were no obvious signs of trauma on Lucas’s body and that foul play was not suspected.
The Washtenaw County Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to determine the official cause of death.
The University of Michigan issued a statement confirming Lucas’s passing:
“It is with deep sadness that we share Lucas Mattson has been found deceased.
Our hearts are with Lucas’s family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him during this incredibly difficult time.
We recognize this news may be upsetting for many in our community.
If you are struggling or feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone.
Support is available, and we strongly encourage anyone who needs help to reach out to the resources available here.”
Context of College Student Safety Concerns
Lucas’s death comes amid ongoing national conversations about college student safety.
A separate case involving Missouri University student Riley Strain, 22, has drawn attention after he went missing during a fraternity trip in March 2024.
Riley’s body was found in the Cumberland River two weeks later, and his family has since filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the fraternity chapter for alleged negligence.
While each case is unique, both tragedies underscore the vulnerability of students and the importance of awareness, preparedness, and safety measures on and around college campuses.
What Happens Next
Authorities continue to investigate the exact circumstances of Lucas Mattson’s death.
Meanwhile, the university is offering support to students, staff, and anyone affected by the loss.
The community is left grappling with grief and questions about how such tragedies might be prevented in the future.
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