Schools
JUST IN: Kent State Dorm Student Died of Natural Causes
James Barnes was found dead Oct. 16 in Leebrick Hall
James Barnes, 26, of Midland, PA, did not have drugs or alcohol in his system when he died, according to the Portage County Coroner's Office. Coroner Dr. Roger Marcial said he died of natural causes, citing pneumonia of the left lung.
He was dorm room on Oct. 16 after a family member called the university and asked them to check in on him because he hadn't contacted family for some time, Kent State spokesperson Emily Vincent said previously.
Barnes was a first-semester graduate student pursuing his master's degree, according to the university.
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Students at the university gathered at a to remember Barnes. His family members gave emotional testimonies and reminded other Kent State students to "check your neighbors."
University officials could not be reached for comment.
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