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The University of Houston (UH) has shuttered one of its academic facilities in response to the on-campus death of a student, per Houston-based media outlets’ reports.
Agnes Arnold Hall is temporarily closed while university president Dr. Renu Khator and other officials decide what to do next with the building.
Houston National Public Radio (NPR) affiliate Houston Public Media (HPM) reported that the unnamed student allegedly died by suicide at Agnes Arnold Hall on Monday.
The building, located at 3553 Cullen Blvd., had been the site of multiple student deaths in the last half-decade, with two having occurred during the current semester.
“We are deeply saddened to inform our community of a death that occurred on the University of Houston campus [on Monday],” the school said in a tweet.
UH’s police department is investigating the incident, which occurred more than a month after a student was found dead at the building, Houston ABC affiliate KTRK reported.
"Many in our community have expressed concern about Agnes Arnold Hall,” the university said in a statement disseminated to the media. “We are taking immediate action to limit access to the building as we consider its future use in the short and long term."
Classes held at the facility shifted to virtual learning.
Houston CBS affiliate KHOU reported that the setup of the building consists of open hallways and a basement-level courtyard, which students claim poses safety concerns.
The three students who died there were alleged to have jumped or fallen, the station reported.
"We were all very saddened about it and we want something to change," psychology major Lacey Stewart said in the report.
Students have been urged to take advantage of mental health resources and services.
If you or a loved one has suicidal thoughts, please contact the 24-hour 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 9-8-8.