Dartmouth College Student Death - Won Jang Obituary - Missing Dartmouth Student Won Jang Found Dead in Connecticut River

Won Jang, a 20-year-old Dartmouth College student, was found dead in the Connecticut River, raising suspicions that he may have been a victim of hazing. 

Jang was last seen by friends around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday while attending an informal social gathering hosted by the Ledyard Canoe Club. 

When he failed to appear for a scheduled engagement the following day, concerned friends reported him missing to the Hanover Police Department.

Chief Charlie Dennis of the Hanover Police Department informed Newsweek that the investigation is exploring the possibility that the event Jang attended was an official fraternity gathering. 

This line of inquiry emerged after the police received anonymous emails via the college, suggesting potential hazing activities or alcohol involvement. 

Dennis stated, "We received some anonymous emails that we got through the college that indicate there may have been hazing or alcohol involved." 

However, definitive answers regarding these suspicions will not be available until the toxicology report is completed, which could take three to six months.

The search for Jang was a coordinated effort involving multiple local law enforcement agencies, including the Lebanon and Hartford fire departments, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, and the Upper Valley Response Team. 

During the search, Jang's personal items were discovered near the dock, indicating he had likely not left the river area. 

Rescuers eventually retrieved his body just before 7:30 p.m., about 65 feet offshore from where he was last seen.

The preliminary investigation has not identified any signs of foul play, but the exact cause of Jang's death remains undetermined. 

The community is awaiting the toxicology results, which could provide crucial information about the circumstances leading to his tragic death. 

The possibility of hazing, particularly involving alcohol, has cast a shadow over the incident, prompting discussions about the safety and oversight of social activities associated with college clubs and fraternities.

Jang's untimely death has deeply affected the Dartmouth College community, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for a thorough investigation to prevent future tragedies. 

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind the events that led to Jang's death, ensuring that any potential misconduct is addressed, and taking steps to safeguard other students from similar risks.