Special Statement from LWC: Campus Community Mourns Death of a Student


COLUMBIA, Ky. -- The Lindsey Wilson College community is mourning the death of a junior student-athlete after he was found dead in his dorm room Tuesday morning.

Colton Hutzelman, 21, a communication and media studies junior and member of the LWC junior varsity baseball team from Louisville, Ky., was found unresponsive in his room in Smith Hall, 301 Spickard Drive.

LWC baseball head coach Jonathan Burton said Hutzelman was a bright and compassionate young man who was committed to the classroom and his team.

“We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Colton,” said Burton. “His dedication to our program will be something that I will always remember as both positive and hard working.”

And Burton says that his memory will live on among his LWC teammates and peers.

“We are proud to have known Colton as a great friend, teammate, classmate and are prayerful for his family and friends during this difficult time,” said Burton.

LWC President William T. Luckey Jr. issued an email statement to the campus community.

“I know how painful this must be to all of you who knew Colton as a friend, a student, a teammate and a fellow Blue Raider,” said Luckey. “Please keep the student's family, teammates and friends in your thoughts and prayers.”

Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management Dean Adams says the college is providing a number of resources for students who wish to seek counseling.

“The campus community suffered a terrible loss today. Our primary purpose is supporting the students, Colton’s family and friends and all those affected by this tragedy,” said Adams.

An open prayer service will be held at the campus quadrangle tonight, May 8 at 10:30 p.m. CT. Counselors and ministers will remain on-hand and offer services to students throughout the evening and the rest of the week.

Counseling services for students and the entire LWC community are available by calling 270-384-7484 or contacting campus ministries at 270-384-8144.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time.