Student’s death shocks university

THE University of Southern Queensland has identified the 19-year-old Chinchilla teenager found dead in his room as Bachelor of Commerce student Jonathan Hodson.

Fire crews made the grim discovery of the teenager’s body while investigating a gas incident at Concannon College at the university on Sunday night.

The student had produced hydrogen sulphide in a bedroom.

Hydrogen sulphide is a colourless, poisonous and flammable gas with the characteristic odour of rotten eggs.

The student had taped up his bedroom, an adjoining bedroom and bathroom to prevent the gas from escaping.

He had also placed a danger sign on the door.

Another student saw the warning and initially thought it was a prank until he smelt gas and alerted security.

Security staff phoned the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service at 9pm and evacuated the building.

Three fire crews including a specialist hazardous material unit went to the incident.

Firefighters donned chemical protection suits before entering the rooms.

They gained entry to the empty bedroom and bathroom before locating the student’s body in the second bedroom.

Emergency services remained on scene until just before midnight.

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Jan Thomas said that Mr Hodson first enrolled at the university as a Head-start student where he had completed two courses towards his degree program while still at school.

She said police had confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Mr Hodson’s sudden death.

“Counselling staff are continuing to provide whatever assistance was needed for staff and students and have been working closely with Jonathan’s family,” she said.

“Sadly, the university has lost an aspiring student and one who will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.”

Residents from the affected block were given accommodation elsewhere.

Toowoomba Police are investigating the death and will prepare a report for the Coroner.

Professor Thomas urged anyone who may be feeling anxious or depressed to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or visit www.reachout.com if you are in need of immediate assistance.