The Middlebury College community is reeling after the heartbreaking discovery of 21-year-old student Lia Smith, whose body was found Thursday afternoon following an intensive week-long search.
According to Vermont State Police, Smith’s body was located around 1:30 p.m. in a field west of the Middlebury campus, near The Knoll, the college’s organic farm in Cornwall. Authorities confirmed her identity later that evening, bringing a devastating close to days of uncertainty and hope among friends, family, and classmates.
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Preliminary investigations suggest that Smith’s death was an apparent suicide, with officials emphasizing that there were no signs of foul play. An autopsy is scheduled to confirm the official cause and manner of death.
The discovery followed an extensive search operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies — including Vermont and New York State Police, the FBI, and Middlebury College staff — supported by volunteers from the local community. Drones, K9 units, and ground teams combed vast rural areas in an effort to locate the missing student after she was last seen on campus the previous Friday.
Following the tragic news, Middlebury officials canceled a planned press briefing and instead released a statement expressing deep sorrow and gratitude to those who participated in the search.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Lia,” the college said in an email to students and faculty. “Her warmth, intellect, and kindness enriched the lives of everyone who knew her. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and friends.”
Grief has rippled across the campus, with students organizing vigils and reflection gatherings to honor Smith’s memory. Counseling and mental health services have been made available to help the college community navigate this painful loss.
Authorities and school leaders alike urged anyone struggling with emotional distress to seek support. Those in crisis can call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for confidential, round-the-clock help.
As Middlebury mourns, Lia Smith is remembered not just as a promising student, but as a compassionate young woman whose light touched many — a legacy her peers vow will not be forgotten.