A cause of death has been revealed for Lauren Bernett, the James Madison University softball whose death was reported earlier this week.
According to authorites with the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office, the young athlete's death has been ruled a suicide. An investigation into Bernett's death is ongoing.
"The official report from the medical examiner's office is pending, and out of respect for her family and friends, there is no other information to release at this time," Rockingham County Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson told the Associated Press.
The athlete's death was announced by the university on Monday. "Our hearts are aching, hearing the news of the loss of one of our student-athletes. Lauren Bernett was a high-achieving member of our softball team and a great ambassador of JMU and our athletics program," read the statement.
"Our thoughts are with her family; her coaches, teammates and friends; the rest of our department staff and student-athletes; and the entire JMU community. JMU Nation is a close community, and we grieve together."
Lauren Bernett's death comes as discussions about mental health among college athletes have been thrust into the mainstream. There have been several reports of athletes dying by suicide recently, while other athletes have made headlines for speaking out about putting their mental health first and what the immense pressure of being a college athlete feels like.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
