ME Releases Info On Death Of Student Who Fell From Apartment

MINNEAPOLIS — For the second time in less than two weeks, the University of St. Thomas community is mourning the loss of a young student. First-year student Joia Mae Simpson died after she fell from the 10th floor of The Bridges apartments (930 University Ave SE) in Dinkytown early Thursday, the university said.

According to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner, Simpson died just before 1 a.m. on Nov. 1.

The office said Friday that she died from "multiple blunt force injuries sustained in a fall."

Authorities told the Star Tribune the incident happened at a Halloween party. Simpson fell over two side-by-side railings during the party, according to dispatch audio.

She died at the scene. The Minneapolis Police Department is still investigating.

Simpson — a Bayside, California native — was interested in studying business, according to St. Thomas. Her family wants her to be remembered for "her beautiful smile."

Simpson, 19, died less than two weeks after another St. Thomas student passed away. On Oct. 21, Andover native Katie Mullen was found unresponsive in her bed. She died of natural causes.

"This has been a difficult few weeks for our campus community," the university said in a statement Thursday.

"Counseling and Psychological Services and the Center for Campus Ministry are available for students, faculty and staff who desire additional grief support."

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Image via University of St. Thomas, used with permission