The University of Louisiana at Lafayette community is grappling with the heartbreaking loss of Jeremy Basil Brown, a student whose life came to a tragic end on the evening of April 7, 2024. Basil’s death, a result of suicide from the Olivier Parking Garage on campus, has cast a pall of mourning over the university.
The incident that led to Basil’s untimely demise unfolded on a somber Sunday afternoon when UL Lafayette Police were summoned to an emergency situation near the Olivier Parking Garage. Despite the rapid response of officers and the valiant efforts of emergency medical personnel, Basil was pronounced dead at the scene.
Compounding the tragedy, reports have emerged that Jeremy Basil Brown had made serious allegations of rape against three individuals on her Instagram account prior to her death. The individuals named include Shawn R Popp, a music professor at UL Lafayette, Chris Moody, and Josh Brown. These grave accusations have sent shockwaves through the UL Lafayette community and have prompted an intensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Basil’s death.
In the wake of this tragedy, the UL Lafayette Police Department has issued a reminder of the mental health support services available to students, faculty, and staff. The UL Lafayette Counseling and Testing Center is providing free, individual counseling sessions to those affected by this event, urging anyone in need of support to reach out.
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette, a leading public research institution, finds itself at the heart of a somber reflection on student safety, mental health, and the resources available to those in crisis. This tragic event underscores the importance of community, support, and the urgent need for vigilance in addressing allegations of sexual violence and providing the necessary help to those in distress.
As investigations continue, the university community comes together in grief and solidarity, extending its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jeremy Basil Brown. The loss of such a young life is a stark reminder of the profound impacts of mental health struggles and the imperative to foster a safe and supportive environment for all students.
Jeremy Basil Brown’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be communicated by the family in due time. In the meantime, the university and its members stand united in mourning and in the commitment to seeking justice and healing in the aftermath of this tragedy.
