Duquesne University football player dies after falling 16 floors from residence hall

PITTSBURGH — A Duquesne University football player died after he fell from a 16th-floor window in a residence hall Thursday night, officials said.

Duquesne University President Ken Gormley identified the man as Marquis Brown, a junior in the McAnulty College of Liberal Arts from Washington, D.C.

Marquis Brown (Photo courtesy: Duquesne University)

Pittsburgh police were called about 10:30 p.m. to Brottier Hall, where campus police had responded to an altercation on the 16th floor. As campus police were on scene, Brown fell out of a window, police said.

“It is with great sadness that I report that we had a tragedy on campus last night,” Gormley said in a message sent to students and staff.

Gormley said Brown “jumped out of a 16th-floor window of Brottier Hall after campus police arrived in response to a reported disturbance.”

Brown was taken to UPMC Mercy Hospital in critical condition and was later pronounced dead.

“Please join me in praying for Marquis, his family, and his many friends and teammates during this time of great sadness for the entire campus community. May he rest in peace,” Gormley said.

Brown was a running back for the Dukes. The team’s homecoming game will be played Saturday.

Heading into what is supposed to be a celebratory homecoming weekend on campus, students are left in disbelief and have heavy hearts.

“Just super sad. Just someone like us. I mean, on campus too. I can’t even imagine looking at that window right now,” senior Julianne Herman said.

Students on campus tell me student athlete #MarquisBrown’s death is even more tragic because the #DuquesneUniversity homecoming football game is scheduled for tomorrow. @WPXI pic.twitter.com/vePMn1u6qI
— Mike Holden (@WPXIMikeHolden) October 5, 2018

Gormley said counselors will be available for any student, faculty or staff member in need of support. Campus ministry is also available.

A memorial service is being planned and will likely be held Sunday evening, Gormley said.

“I just think we should all just kind of link together and just celebrate his life,” senior Julian Kleberg said. “I hope his family can get through this. It’s never good to bury a child. I wish the best to his family and friends and hope they’ll get through this tough time.”

Police are investigating Brown’s death. Anyone with information is asked to call Pittsburgh police detectives at 412-323-7800.

TRENDING NOW:

Cox Media Group