Statement Regarding Student Death
This includes official statements and information.
Posted April 25 at 8:45 am
Statement regarding the interim suspension of Phi Kappa Theta
The Phi Kappa Theta fraternity at San Diego State University has been notified that it has been placed on interim suspension pending the conclusion of an investigation into the death of SDSU student Barzeen Barzanji.
While on interim suspension, all university and Interfraternity Council privileges are suspended, and the chapter is expected to cease all activities, with the exception of chapter programs approved in advance by SDSU’s office of Student Life and Leadership. During the interim suspension, all chapter-related facilities and chapter related activities must be completely alcohol and drug free. Any violation will result in more severe sanction. Additionally, no guests are allowed in the chapter house unless approved in advance by the office Student Life and Leadership.
Students and organizations in violation of campus policies will be referred to the office of Student Rights and Responsibilities for a hearing and, if appropriate, disciplinary action.
Posted April 20 at 5:30 p.m.
Update regarding SDSU student passing
SDSU can confirm the identity of the SDSU student found this morning as 20-year-old Barzeen Barzanji. A junior criminal justice major, Barzanji was the president of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.
SDSU Police and the County Medical Examiner are continuing their investigation into the cause of death. The preliminary investigation does not indicate foul play. No further information is available at this time. Updated information will be shared on this page when it is available.
We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss and want to express our sympathies to Barzeen’s friends, family and fraternity brothers.
Statement from SDSU President Elliot Hirshman
SDSU Students, Faculty and Staff,
We are deeply saddened by the news of the death of one of our students this morning. SDSU Police are investigating the circumstances. Any loss of life in our community is tragic and I encourage each of you to support each other during this difficult time. The identity of the student will be confirmed after his parents have been reached. SDSU Counseling and Psychological Services is available to support anyone who needs assistance. Updated information will be shared on this page.
Elliot Hirshman, SDSU president
Posted April 20 at 10:41 a.m.Statement from SDSU Police Chief John Browning
This morning at approximately 8:30 a.m., SDSU Police responded to a 9-1-1 call at the Phi Kappa Theta house. A male student was found unresponsive. The student was not a member of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity.
At this time, SDSU Police are investigating. The medical examiner has arrived and we are cooperating fully with their investigation.
Students have been offered emergency counseling through SDSU Counseling and Psychological Services and are encouraged to contact them if they need support. They can be reached at 619-594-5220.
That is all the information we can share at this time. This page will be updated with additional information as it becomes available.
We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss.
John Browning, SDSU police chief
