Cape and Islands District Attorney's Office identifies cadet who died Wednesday
The female cadet who was found dead Wednesday morning in a dorm at Massachusetts Maritime Academy died from a pre-existing medical condition, state police said.
She has been identified as Amanda Robinson, 22 of Bellmore, New York, according to Robert Galibois, district attorney for the Cape & Islands District Attorney's Office.
A preliminary investigation launched by Massachusetts State Police detectives suggests that Robinson, a senior at Mass Maritime, died from a pre-existing medical condition. An autopsy will be performed by a medical examiner, according to Galibois.
"Upon initial investigation, there does not appear to be any evidence of foul play and there is no threat to public safety," Galibois said in the statement released Thursday.
Campus officials assembled grief support
Francis McDonald, president of the school, talked about Robinson's death in an email to cadets and students Wednesday afternoon.
"It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I write to you all today to let you know that a cadet has passed away," McDonald wrote in the email.
Immediately after being notified of the student's death, the school mobilized grief support teams, according to the email.
School honors cadet with formation
McDonald canceled classes until 11 a.m. Thursday.
The school also held a formation Thursday morning to honor Robinson's life, McDonald said.
During the formation, Abigail Pope, regimental commander '23 for Emergency Management at Mass Maritime, said in an email that a bell rang eight times to signify that Robinson's watch was over.
"This is a time of unimaginable loss. I am heartbroken about the passing of our shipmate," said Pope. "I ask that we remind ourselves of her ambition and hard-working spirit and keep her memory alive."
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A vigil will be held Monday
According to Pope, a candlelight vigil will be held at 8 p.m., Monday to honor Robinson.
"If you would like to say words about her life, share any memories, or share supportive thoughts that you may have, there will be a microphone set up at the vigil," said Pope.
She asked all cadets to support one another.
"You all will be in my thoughts and prayers," said Pope. "If anyone needs anything, my door is always open."
Rachael Devaney writes about community and culture. Reach her at rdevaney@capecodonline.com. Follow her on Twitter: @RachaelDevaney.
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This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Massachusetts Maritime cadet died Wednesday. She was from New York.
