Body Discovered in Search for Missing Vermont College Student Lia Smith

Body Discovered in Search for Missing Vermont College Student Lia Smith

A body was discovered during the search for Lia Smith, a missing college student from Vermont, who was last seen near the Middlebury College campus approximately one week ago. This incident has sent shockwaves through the community and raised concerns about student safety.

Last Seen on Campus

Lia Smith, a 21-year-old senior at Middlebury College, was reported missing after she was last seen on the night of October 17. The college, where she double majors in computer science and statistics, announced her disappearance the following Sunday. Smith, originally from California, also competed as a member of the women’s swimming and diving team at the college.

Discovery of the Body

According to a statement from Vermont State Police, an unidentified body was found in a field located west of the college campus around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday. This area, situated in the town of Cornwall, is not far from The Knoll, which is the college’s organic farm.

Investigation Underway

After securing the area, authorities initiated a death investigation. Currently, officials await the results of an autopsy to confirm the identity of the deceased and to establish the cause and manner of death. Scheduled for Friday in Burlington, Vermont, this autopsy is a crucial element of the ongoing investigation.

No Immediate Signs of Foul Play

At present, investigators state that they do not suspect foul play in the death. This development provides a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy, but it still leaves the community grappling with uncertainty.

How Authorities Responded

Initially, police planned to hold a live press update to address the community’s concerns on Thursday afternoon. However, they canceled the event shortly before it was due to commence. In response to Smith’s disappearance, the Middlebury Police Department enlisted help from additional agencies, including Vermont State Police, New York State Police, and the FBI, to assist in the search efforts that involved ground searches and drone surveillance over several days.

Community’s Grief and Support

In the wake of this heartbreaking news, Middlebury College President Ian Baucom expressed his condolences in a statement posted on Instagram. He emphasized that the college is doing everything possible to support its community during this difficult time.

“I know that this is extraordinarily difficult news to receive as we continue to hold Lia and all her family and friends tight in our hearts,” said President Baucom. He urged everyone to prioritize their well-being and check on one another in these trying circumstances.

About Middlebury College

Middlebury College, often referred to as a ‘Little Ivy,’ is a well-respected private liberal arts institution located in Addison County, Vermont. Nestled in the picturesque Champlain Valley, the college boasts a student population of approximately 2,800 undergraduates.

Looking Ahead

The situation remains fluid as investigators work to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding Lia Smith’s disappearance and the discovery of the body. The Middlebury community, alongside family and friends, continues to hold hope while navigating their grief.

Fox News Digital has made multiple attempts to reach out to the Middlebury Police Department and representatives from Middlebury College for further updates and information.