James Madison University, Confirms Bernard Stapelfeld, First Year Students Death on Campus

March 2024 · 2 minute read

James Madison University reported the unfortunate passing of a student, Bernard Stapelfeld, in Frederikson Hall on Thursday morning. The university assured that there is no threat to campus safety, and the Virginia State Police are investigating the incident.

Support services for academics, staff, and students remain accessible. An email from the president’s office notified the school community of Stapelfeld’s death early on Thursday. Dean Bethany Blackstone stated that Stapelfeld, an honors student majoring in finance, was a first-year student at JMU.

The Virginia State Police are conducting an inquiry, and the university emphasizes no danger to the public on campus. Resources for assistance are available to students, faculty, and staff.

The cause of Stapelfeld’s death is unknown. The police are investigating reports of noise the night of the incident, shattered glass, and bloodstains in his room. No information about suspects or arrests has been disclosed.

The university extended condolences to Stapelfeld’s family and urged students needing mental health support to contact TimelyCare and the Counseling Center.

In a separate incident, Harrisonburg Police are investigating the death of JMU student Marisa Curlen. The 20-year-old, originally from Rye, New York, passed away in her bedroom, as reported by The Breeze. The Alpha Phi sorority conveyed condolences via texts, and the university’s Associate Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life informed all students of Curlen’s passing via email.

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