Urgent Update: Canadian Student Meagan Turner Found Dead in River

UPDATE: Authorities have identified the victim recovered from the Red Cedar River near the Michigan State University (MSU) campus as 32-year-old Meagan Turner, a doctoral student from Canada. Her body was discovered last Monday, east of Cedar Village, triggering an immediate investigation by local police.

The East Lansing Police Department (ELPD) confirmed that there is currently no evidence of foul play in Turner’s death. However, they are awaiting toxicology reports, which could take two to four weeks, to determine the exact cause of death. In a statement, Police Chief Jen Brown reassured the community, saying, “ELPD will continue to investigate all options and leads in this case, but we do not have reason at this point to believe there is an ongoing risk to public safety.”

While authorities have not ruled out drugs or alcohol as factors, details remain unclear. Turner’s family has been notified of her passing, heightening the emotional impact of this tragic event.

This incident bears a chilling resemblance to the case of Brendan Santo, an 18-year-old MSU student whose body was also found in the Red Cedar River in October 2021. Santo’s death was ruled an accidental drowning, with a blood-alcohol level of 0.22 at the time of his death.

As the investigation continues, the ELPD urges anyone with information related to Turner’s death to come forward. The community is left grappling with the loss of a promising student, and the police are determined to uncover all possible details surrounding this case.

This developing story highlights the ongoing concerns about safety in the area and the tragic circumstances surrounding young lives lost too soon. Readers are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as authorities work diligently to provide clarity on this heartbreaking situation.