1 student killed, 2 hospitalized from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at Evergreen State College

OLYMPIA, Wash. - One Evergreen College Student has died and two others were injured following an incident of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at one of the school's off-campus housing units.

The students were found on the evening of Dec. 11 after a student residence manager called campus police when they were not able to contact the students.

An Evergreen police officer broke down the door and had to do emergency CPR on the students. Two students were hospitalized for suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, as was the responding officer. Both of those students have since been released.

Troopers identified the student who was killed as 21-year-old Jonathan Rodriguez, of Dupont. 

McLane Black Lake Fire Department quickly responded to the scene and conducted carbon monoxide testing in the impacted areas. Later that evening, campus officials contacted all Evergreen students in nearby campus housing to make sure they were safe.

"This is a tragedy, and we grieve for our students and families," said Evergreen President John Carmichael. "The safety of students, staff and faculty remain Evergreen’s top priority." 

Earlier in the day, a contractor working on campus in an area of housing called the Modular Apartments responded to carbon monoxide alarms, according to campus officials. It's unclear if it's connected.

"Every life is precious and any loss, especially a college student just starting their life’s journey, is difficult," said WSP Chief John R. Batiste. "We all share the sorrow of this tragic news and will keep those impacted in our thoughts and prayers during what will no doubt be a very difficult holiday season."

The on-scene investigation has been completed and the findings will be released to school officials.