Friday, Sep. 05, 2008

Benedict student found dead

Foul play is not suspected, authorities say

Foul play is not suspected in the death of a Benedict College student found dead Wednesday night in a Columbia hotel room where she was living, authorities said.

The college identified the student as Vonetta L. Harris, 21, a sophomore journalism major from Ninety Six, in Greenwood County.

Harris was found dead about 8:30 p.m. in her room at Extended Stay America, 450 Gracern Road, located near Greystone Boulevard, said State Law Enforcement Division spokeswoman Jennifer Timmons.

Harris’ body was discovered by several friends who had called her earlier and became concerned when she didn’t respond, Timmons said.

By law, SLED investigates student deaths in campus housing, she said.

Harris was living at the hotel as part of the college’s “overflow” housing, college spokeswoman Kymm Hunter said. Because of higher-than-expected demand for on-campus housing this year, some students had been placed in off-campus housing temporarily, she said.

Hunter said grief counseling has been offered to students.

Toxicology results could take several weeks to determine the exact cause of death, Richland County Coroner Gary Watts said Thursday.

“There’s nothing to indicate any foul play,” he said.

Watts said he’s not aware that Harris had any known serious pre-existing medical conditions, though he added, “We’re still checking into that.”

The college released a prepared statement about the death Thursday:

“The Benedict family extends its heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathy to the Harris family during their time of grief.”

Reach Brundrett at (803) 771-8484.