A Liberty University freshman is dead after an apparent altercation with a university Emergency Services Officer yesterday in Lynchburg.
According to university officials, 19-year-old Josh Hathaway, of Lubbock, Texas died from a gunshot wound, after attacking a university security officer yesterday morning at an off-campus, female-only residential hall.
The officer, who’s name has not been released, stated that Hathaway approached him around 4AM Tuesday, to report he had been robbed and that his vehicle had been stolen. As the officer began the investigation, Hathaway then pulled out a hammer and assaulted him. The two struggled for a bit and once the officer was able to pull away, he pulled out his gun and fired two rounds. One of the bullets struck and killed Hathaway.
Officials aren’t sure yet, why Hathaway was in the dorm building. The incident took place in the lobby of Residential Annex Hall II about 3 miles from campus. Hathaway apparently lived across the street at another residential building.
He’s described by classmates as quiet, smart, studious and hard-working, although his roommate stated that he seemed a bit distracted the last few days and was having some personal problems.
The officer’s name has not been released, and he’s been suspended with pay, pending an investigation.
Liberty University President, Jerry Falwell Jr., plans to address the incident during today’s weekly campus-wide convocation.