Western Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia confirmed that Bernett, 20, died by suicide.
The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office concluded the investigation last Thursday. And the Western Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia confirmed that Bernett died by suicide.
“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,” said Rockingham County Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson.
Bernett’s death was announced last Tuesday in a joint statement from James Madison University President Jonathan Alger and Director of Athletics Jeff Bourne.
“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,” the statement read.
“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 Award winning catcher
Lauren Bernett was an award-winning catcher. And her death took place one day after she was named Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week. Her “Dukes” teammate, Lexi Rogers, earned Rookie of the Week honors.
