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Duquesne University responds to mother's plea for answers in son's death

PITTSBURGH — Duquesne University is responding to a mother’s plea for information in the sudden and unexpected death of her son.

Marquis Jaylen Brown died Oct. 5 after jumping from the 16th floor of a residence hall on the university’s Uptown campus.

At a memorial service Monday near Washington, D.C., Brown’s mother said she’s still yearning for closure and has not gotten any answers from the university.

"I just want to know what happened so I can grieve him but now, I just want to fight for him," said Danelle Brown.

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On Tuesday, the university released a statement saying in part, “Duquesne University shares the family’s interest in determining the cause of this tragedy and continues to cooperate fully with the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police in its ongoing investigation.”

Brown had just celebrated his 21st birthday when he died.

His mother said when she talked with him the night before his death, he was still beaming from his birthday celebration.

"I've asked questions: what, where, when, how and why?" Brown said. "And I have not gotten any answers from the university."

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Here is the full statement released Tuesday by Duquesne University:

Duquesne University continues to recognize, support and offer our condolences to Marquis Jaylen Brown's parents, family members, friends, teammates, classmates and coaches as we all process and mourn this heartbreaking loss.

In addition to the memorial that was held on campus on October 7, a large number of teammates, fellow students and University officials participated in the beautiful celebration of Jaylen's life yesterday in Maryland. University staff are continuing to assist the family in a variety of ways. On campus, counselors and Spiritan Campus Ministry staff are available for any student, faculty or staff member in need of support.

Duquesne University shares the family's interest in determining the cause of this tragedy and continues to cooperate fully with the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police in its ongoing investigation. 
As we await the results of the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police's investigation, our focus remains on supporting Jaylen's family, friends and others impacted by this tragedy and on offering support and prayers for strength during this difficult time.

The University encourages any individual with information concerning this tragic event to contact the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police at 412-323-7800.

 

Cox Media Group

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