Body of Missing GW Student Found, University Says

The body of George Washington University student Nick Upton has been found, five days after he went missing while swimming, during an overseas trip in South Africa, the University said in a statement Friday.

Six students from a group of 11 went swimming on Sunday when Upton went missing, authorities in South Africa said. Unfavorable weather conditions and the remote location of the area led to first responders arriving at the scene only around 10 a.m. Monday.

Despite an extensive search effort, the rescue was called off and Upton was presumed to have drowned. Authorities said an ongoing search operation would continue.

Upton’s parents flew to South Africa on Wednesday. A fundraising campaign was started to help the family with travel costs and possible search and rescue costs.

The university issued the following statement Friday afternoon, from Vice Provost and Dean of Student Affairs Peter Konwerski:

”The United States Consulate General of Cape Town, South Africa, has notified the university that the body of undergraduate student Nicholas Upton was found today, five days after he was last seen swimming off the coast of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. Our hearts go out to Nick’s family and friends. He touched many during his time at GW, and he will be missed.

”The GW Division of Student Affairs is offering support to those students affected by this devastating news, and the university Employee Assistance Program is available to faculty and staff. Mental Health Services within the Colonial Health Center can be reached at 202-994-5300; students who have academic concerns can reach out to their academic advisers; those who are concerned about a member of the GW community, including parents, can complete a CARE Network Report form.”

Upton was a junior at the university, and was last seen since swimming in the East Cape Province on Sunday.

A native of Redding, Connecticut, Upton was a student in GW’s Elliott School of International Affairs, a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity and a member of the rowing team.

His fraternity posted this message:

“Rescuers found the body of our brother, Nicholas Upton, a few hours ago,” the Fraternity wrote on their Facebook page today. “Although we are saddened by this great loss, we are thankful for Nick’s life and his work for Alpha Nu. We are also thankful for your help and support in the search for Nick over the past five days. We will be working together with Nick’s family on plans to honor Nick and keep his memory alive.”