Notre Dame University Student Declan Sullivan Dies In Tower Accident

Another terrible tragedy has struck on a college campus this week when Declan Sullivan, a student at Notre Dame University died when the tower he was standing on to film football practice toppled over. The tower was a hydraulic scissor lift, which had been extended to a height of 50 ft. when it fell, blown over by winds gusting at 51 mph.

Although the incident is being investigated, Declan's death was an accidental one. Before he died, he had reportedly posted several messages on his twitter, messages which foreshadowed the danger he was in. Just as practice was beginning, he posted this tweet: "Gusts of wind up to 60 mph. Well today will be fun at work. I guess I've lived long enough." As the winds picked up, a second tweet reflected his fear at the seriousness of his situation: "Holy (blank). Holy (blank). This is terrifying."

Declan was just 20 years old, and a junior at the University from Long Grove, ILL. Notre Dame's president John Jenkins issued a statement to ESPN saying, "We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss," Jenkins said. "Our hearts go out to the student's family and friends and our prayers and profound sympathies are with them during this incredibly difficult time. The loss of someone so young is a terrible shock and a great sadness. Our entire community shares in the family's grief."

Grief counselors have been made available to the students, and the football team cancelled their post-practice interviews. As one player, Senior Linebacker Brian Smith wrote on his twitter, "In the midst of a season where you are disappointed with the outcomes ... you can lose sight of what's most important. Sad day at practice, I will never forget today."

The team's coach Brian Kelly also issued a statement saying, "Our thoughts and prayers go out to Declan's family and friends. Declan was a diligent student worker in our video department and had a tremendous personality and great sense of humor. He brightened the days for all that had the privilege to work with him, and the Notre Dame football family will dearly miss him." A mass is being held in Declan's honour tonight at 10pm.