Swarthmore College student dies after falling down embankment

SWATHMORE, Pa. (WPVI) -- A Delaware County College is in mourning after a tragic accident Saturday.

The incident happened around 2:45 p.m. at Swarthmore College in the 500 block of College Avenue.

Police said a male student fell some 45 feet down an embankment.

The student's death was ruled accidental.

Police have yet to identify the student, who was from out of the area.

Around the same time, 59-year-old Valerie Smith was installed as the college's new president.

She released the following statement:

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,

With profound sadness I write to share the tragic news that Anthony Chiarenza '18, from Bayside, N.Y., died this afternoon in Crum Woods, after an apparent fall. Anthony was found unresponsive by local residents who called 911. Police and authorities responded and efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. His family has been notified, and we have contacted as many of his close friends and faculty members as possible. Please keep the Chiarenza family and their friends in your heart, thoughts, and prayers.

There's no easy way to share this news, and I know that receiving it via email can make it even more difficult. I encourage you to seek the comfort and support of your friends and colleagues. The Dean's office will be available in the Admissions Commons tonight to offer support. CAPS support is also available for students who may want individual counseling (610-328-7768).Tomorrow, CAPS will hold open hours from Noon to 3 p.m.

Please look out for one another during this very sad time and remain alert to your friends' and students' needs.

Sincerely,

Val Smith