Freshman William Batterson from Richmond Heights, Missouri passed away Monday afternoon. Batterson was a history major residing in West Campus Suites. He was a recent graduate of Ladue Horton Watkins High School in St. Louis, Missouri.
Adair County Coroner Brian Noe said Batterson was found unresponsive in his room by his suitemates. He said Batterson was transferred to Northeast Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy is scheduled to take place Wednesday, he said. Noe said he cannot confirm cause of death until the autopsy reports come back. He said the final results of the autopsy will not be available for approximately eight weeks.
Batterson’s friend, Patrick Concannon, said he met Batterson during 8th grade. He said Batterson was a great friend to him and to everyone around them.
“Anybody could walk up to him, and he’d treat them like a close friend,” Concannon said. “If anybody needed a pick-me-up, Billy was the person to talk to and wouldn’t fail to put a smile on your face. He was just truly an exceptional guy.”
Truman State is offering counseling from the University Counseling Services available by appointment. Those interested can call 660-785-4014 to set up individual appointments. Anyone who needs further assistance can contact the West Campus Suite staff at 660-341-0377.
Truman Media Network will provide further updates when more information becomes available.