University President Teresa Sullivan released a statement stating, "Today is a day of great sadness for the family and friends of Tom Gilliam and for the entire University community. By all accounts, Tom was a bright light. Those who knew him thought him destined to lead an interesting life that would include his deep faith, his interest in caring for those less fortunate, and world politics. As a member of First Year Council, he opened himself to a wide network of friends, and I am told he was hopeful of becoming a resident advisor next year. We mourn the loss of Tom, the promises unfilled, and offer prayers for his family and friends as they begin to deal with their unbearable loss."
Thomas Gilliam Jr., the student's grandfather said Tom, or inside the family "Tommy Four," went to Meriweather Lewis Elementary in Albemarle County from 1st-5th grades. The family then moved to Ireland where they have been ever since.
According to Gilliam, the family was with Tom all of Sunday afternoon, having eaten together, seen Celtic Women at the JPJ, then dropped him off at 10:05 p.m. so he could work on a paper.
Carolyn Wood, a spokesperson for the university wrote in a statement, "His death is a cause for great sadness in the University community."
Wood added, "At this time, we do not believe that either foul play or alcohol were involved. Nor do we believe that this was a suicide. Investigators believe it was a tragic accident ... We do not yet know how the student entered the Physics Building and reached the roof."
"As with any student death, our first priority is the student's family and closest friends. While the student's father is here, we are awaiting the mother's arrival in Charlottesville, which should be within 24 hours," continued Wood's statement.
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Lt. Melissa Fielding of the University of Virginia Police Department confirms, on March 27, 2011 before 11:30 p.m., the UVA Police Department responded to the Physics Building to investigate an incident in which a student fell from the roof.
The Police Department stated in a press release, "The student was transported to the University of Virginia Emergency Department where he died from his injuries. This incident is being investigated by the University Police."
"The Office of the Dean of Students is working closely with the family and friends of the student. Any student in the community in need of support as a result of this incident should call the Dean of Students Office at 434-924-7133."
The Dean of Students Office has not released the name of the student.
Source:NBC29
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