Missing Vermont Student Lia Smith Found Dead Near Middlebury Campus
A Vermont college community is mourning the loss of Lia Smith, a 21-year-old student at Middlebury College. Smith was reported missing after she was last seen on campus on October 17, around 9 p.m. She was officially reported missing on that following Sunday.
Discovery of Lia Smith’s Body
On Thursday, October 26, Vermont State Police announced the discovery of an unidentified body in a field west of Middlebury College. The remains were located near The Knoll, an organic farm associated with the college, in the town of Cornwall.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are currently conducting a death investigation. An autopsy is scheduled to confirm the victim’s identity and determine the cause of death. This autopsy will take place on Friday in Burlington, Vermont. At this time, officials do not believe the incident to be suspicious.
Background on Lia Smith
- Name: Lia Smith
- Age: 21
- Major: Double major in computer science and statistics
- Previous Activity: Former member of the women’s swimming and diving team
- Origin: California
Community Support
Middlebury College is a prestigious private liberal arts institution, often referred to as a “Little Ivy.” The college has approximately 2,800 undergraduate students. In response to the tragic news, President Ian Baucom expressed support for the college community, urging everyone to care for one another during this difficult time.
Search Efforts and Community Response
The search for Lia Smith involved multiple agencies, including the Vermont State Police and the FBI. Ground searches and drone technology were utilized extensively over several days. A planned press conference was canceled shortly before it was set to start, further indicating the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation.
The loss of Lia Smith has left a profound impact on the Middlebury community, and her friends and family are in the thoughts of many during this tragic period.
