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University of Utah statement about Elva Torres

The campus community is mourning the death of student and ROTC cadet Elva Torres, who collapsed during physical training with her ROTC cohort on campus the morning of Monday, Aug. 26.

The University of Utah campus community is mourning the death of student and ROTC cadet Elva Torres. Elva collapsed during physical training with her ROTC cohort on campus the morning of Monday, Aug. 26. She was immediately transported by ambulance to University of Utah Hospital where she died on Aug. 28. Her cause of death has not yet been determined. Elva was a senior at the university majoring in film and media studies. She was 23 years old and graduated from Northridge high school in Layton, Utah in 2014.

Each spring the university honors the lives and memories of students who have passed during the school year at a memorial service organized by the Office of the Dean of Students. The service includes reflections from a variety of faith traditions and provides a time to mourn together as a campus community. The life of Cadet Torres will be honored at this event.

Questions about the ROTC program should be directed to the U.S. Army’s public affairs office at 502-624-4904.

Members of the university community in need of support are encouraged to use university resources. The university’s Counseling Center is open to students, and the Employee Assistance Program provides counseling to employees. For after-hours emergencies, a 24/7 crisis line is available at 801-587-3000. Additional resources and information are available at SafeU.utah.edu.