Inquest into death of first year student is opened
AN inquest into the death of a University of Bath student who went missing last month has been opened.
Alec Unsgaard, a first-year student, was last seen on campus on Friday, September 18 and was reported missing by his mother the following Monday, September 21.
Avon and Somerset Police officers leading the search for him revealed on September 30 that they had found a body in the Bathampton area.
The Avon coroner’s office has confirmed that an inquest into Mr Unsgaard’s death was opened last Wednesday and adjourned pending further inquiries.
They said: “Oona Alec Unsgaard, born 17 September 1999, was confirmed deceased on September 30 in woods near Warminster Road, Bath.
“The inquest into his death was opened on Wednesday, October 14 and adjourned pending further inquires. There is no date set as yet for the inquest.”
Professor Ian White, University of Bath’s vice-chancellor, said previously the news of Mr Unsgaard’s death was “extremely distressing”.
He said: “The news from police that they have found a body in the search for Alec is extremely distressing and our thoughts continue to be with his family at this saddest of times. We will continue to assist them in any way we can, and to engage and support all others involved.
“If any of our students have been affected by this news, we urge them to reach out to one of the many sources of support available to them.”
The university also previously issued advice to any student who had been affected by the news of Mr Unsgaard’s disappearance to make use of its support services.
The statement said: “Wellbeing advisers are available to help at our Student Services Centre on campus, or students can call 01225 383838 or e-mail studentservices@bath.ac.uk to talk via phone or video call if they prefer. Help is also available from the SU (students’ union) Advice Centre at suadvice@bath.ac.uk or from our chaplaincy.
“Our university security team is available 24/7 and can be called for urgent support on 01225 383999.
“If staff are concerned about a student’s welfare, please call ext 4321 to speak to Student Services.
“External sources of support are also available, including The Samaritans, who can be contacted on 116 123.”