Northwestern crew team member found dead after falling overboard

A freshman at Northwestern University has died after falling into the water during crew practice.

According to USA Today, Mohammed Ramzan was found dead Monday evening in North Shore Channel in Lincolnwood, Illinois, outside of Chicago. The 19-year-old freshman had reportedly fallen overboard while practicing with the university’s crew team.

A university official told USA Today that there were nine people aboard that boat Ramzan was in, and it is not yet known how he fell into the water.

A team member and a coach, reportedly in a fellow boat, jumped into the water to try and rescue the teenager, but could not reach him.

Both were taken to a hospital and treated for exposure to the cold water.

According to the Daily Northwestern, rescuers did not locate Ramzan until Monday evening, long after his accident was reported to police earlier that morning.

Ramzan was reportedly from Auburn, Washington.

Northwestern vice president for student affairs Patricia Telles-Irvin addressed the tragic death in a statement Monday:

We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to Mohammed’s family and friends for this tragic loss, which affects us all, and we urge all members of our community to reach out and support one another.

According to USA Today, an autopsy is planned for Ramzan. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise money for funeral expenses.

 

Photo: GoFundMe