Missing NJ College Student Found Dead In PA River: Reports

EAST HANOVER, NJ - The body of a 19-year-old college student from New Jersey who has been reported missing since January was found in a Pennsylvania river last week, according to several media reports.

Daniel Lee, of East Hanover, died in a drowning-related suicide, Lehigh Valley News reported, citing the Northampton County coroner’s office.

Lee was a Lehigh University student.

A missing persons notification was first issued for Lee, a second-year engineering student, on Jan. 21. Foul play was not suspected in connection with his disappearance, according to a campus alert from Lehigh University police.

In a Wednesday statement, Lehigh University President Joseph J. Helble encouraged those who are struggling with mental health to seek support.

“The lack of definitive information surrounding Daniel’s disappearance has been especially hard on those close to him, and the loss of a student is upsetting for our entire Lehigh community,” Helble said, per NJ.com. “If you are struggling with your thoughts or emotions, remember you are not alone, and there are resources and Lehigh staff to support you.”

Editor's Note: If you or someone you know is considering suicide, there are resources available to help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-SUICIDE (or 1-800-784-2433). Its website offers services including a live chat.