The authorities are investigating the death of a Rutgers University sophomore who died early yesterday. Caitlyn Kovacs was reportedly "in distress" while at the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity house and later died at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital.
An autopsy is being conducted, and NJ.com reports: "The preliminary investigation shows that the death may have been alcohol-related." Kovacs apparently passed out around 3 a.m. and was then taken to the hospital by friends.
DKE issued a statement, "On behalf of the International Fraternity of Delta Kappa Epsilon and the Brothers of our chapter at Rutgers University, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Caitlyn Kovacs. We also wish to extend our sympathies to the students of Rutgers University as they endure this time of grief and misfortune. As the investigation of the incident is ongoing, Delta Kappa Epsilon is fully cooperating with local and county authorities."
Rutgers President Robert Barchi said, "This is a time to let each other know that we care and to share our strength and understanding with those in need so that we come through this tragedy with a deeper commitment to each member of the Rutgers community."
Kovacs was studying animal science and worked for a pet-sitting service called Beg 'n Bark. On its website, she wrote, "[M]y passion for animal welfare flourished after I adopted my now 4 year old calico kitty, Dakota. I soon after began volunteering and fostering for a local shelter, learning so much about animals as well as all the possibilities the field could bring me. Also, the experience left me with my tabby cats Tegan, 3 years old, and Parker, a year old. I hope to live my life being a voice for those who do not have one, and it gives me such satisfaction to be there for your companions! I can truly ensure that any animal left in my care will be treated as though they are my own. To include providing all the love and attention given by their own family."
Beg 'n Bark's owner Brenda Janner told NJ.com, "She was a very nice girl, a very smart girl, always happy, bubbly, and had a lot of energy. She was very positive. You could tell she enjoyed doing what she was doing. She had a passion for it."
