Local News

Student found dead in river

Staff report

POULTNEY—A Green Mountain College student was found dead in the Poultney River July 30, police said.

Fuquan Ford, 20, of Albany, N.Y., was pronounced dead at the scene after police received a report of an unresponsive man partially submerged in the Poultney River, June 30 around 5 p.m.

The man was located in the vicinity of 1 Brennan Circle, Poultney, behind the Green Mountain College Campus.

Green Mountain College President Allen issued a statement July 31.

“Fuquan’s positive attitude, warm smile, and passion for social change, animals and nature touched all members of the Green Mountain College community,” Allen wrote.

Ford entered Green Mountain College in the fall of 2017. He was a member of the Green Mountain Eagles Basketball Team and was involved in social activism on campus, including Black Lives Matter.

The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact state police.

There will be a gathering Thursday, Aug. 2 at noon on the college campus to remember Ford.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Ford is planned when the students return for the start of the 2018-19 academic year.

GMC is offering counseling services, available at the Wellness Center or by calling 802-287-8376.

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