The University of Georgia (UGA) community is deeply saddened by the loss of Wyatt Banks, a freshman and member of The Kappa Sigma Beta Lambda Chapter sorority. Wyatt was found deceased in his residence at Brumby Hall on the night of February 21, 2024, Wednesday, as per a statement released by UGA. Reports from a GoFundMe organized by his sorority brothers indicate that Wyatt passed away by suicide.
Heartfelt condolences to the families & friends of the two souls lost in tragedies the past 48 hours. Our community mourns with you. Below is a go fund me for Wyatt Banks:https://t.co/F9Ib6ppmiR
— Barstool UGA (@ugabarstool) February 23, 2024
UGA also shared the unfortunate news of another tragedy, the death of a female student from Augusta University on the UGA campus the following day, intensifying the sense of loss within the university community.
In response to Wyatt’s passing, his sorority brothers initiated a fundraiser to support his family financially and to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Wyatt, a member of the Morehead Honors College, was pursuing studies at the Terry College of Business and the UGA School of Public and International Affairs with a projected graduation year of 2027, as indicated on his LinkedIn profile.
The fundraiser, which has garnered more than $60,000 toward its $75,000 goal, expressed the shock and sadness felt by Wyatt’s sorority members. They remember him fondly for his bright smile, contagious laughter, and his outgoing nature, expressing disbelief at the hidden struggles he faced with his mental health.
The University of Georgia Police Department is actively investigating a death on UGA’s campus with the help of the @GBI_GA and the @accpolice. They ask that anyone with information contact the UGA Police Department immediately at 706-542-2200. pic.twitter.com/nWqEYlB5Nr
— Grady Newsource (@GradyNewsource) February 23, 2024
Banks’ death is a reminder that suicide is a serious issue that can affect anyone. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255. You can also text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Who was Wyatt Banks?
Wyatt Banks was a student at the University of Georgia (UGA) who died by suspected suicide on Wednesday night, February 21, 2024. He was a member of the Kappa Sigma Beta Lambda Chapter and is described as someone who spread positivity and laughter, “with an infectious smile and a laugh that anyone in the room could recognize.” He was also a member of Morehead Honors College and was considered someone open to helping others in school.
Apart from being bright academically, Wyatt’s last employment was in Atlanta Metropolitan Area, as a merchandiser for Eagle Rock Distributing company.
Wyatt joined Terry College of Business (UGA) in 2023. He spoke English and Spanish fluently.
Content Contributor: Rehana Sengupta
***With inputs from TOI.
