'Gifted' NJ College Student Dies Of Drug Overdose In On-Campus Apartment

The cause of death for a New Jersey college student who was found dead last month in his campus apartment has been determined by the medical examiner.

Ray Lucas, a 21-year-old Newark resident and student at Southern Connecticut State University, died of an an accidental overdose from a substance similar to the opioid fentanyl, Fox 61 reports.

Lucas, a junior sports management major, was found dead in his campus apartment during the first weekend of August. According to his obituary, he was a gifted student who studied three languages and won an "I Have a Dream" essay contest, receiving accolades from then-mayor Cory Booker.

At the time of his death, SCSU President Joe Bertolino said “Ray was a vibrant and well-liked member of the campus community. Our deepest sympathies are extended to his family and friends on this untimely loss.”

As a result, university officials say they are educating students about the dangers of drugs and how to seek help.