An important message from the Vice President of Enrollment and Student Services
Dear Western Community,
I am deeply saddened to share with you that a Western Washington University student was killed in an apartment off-campus late last night. There is no ongoing threat, and details are still emerging as Bellingham police investigate. Further information is available at the . We are not releasing the name of the victim pending notification of her family. Rigoberto Galvan, 22, was arrested almost immediately, and is currently in custody, charged with first-degree murder; he has also been trespassed from Western Washington University.
Our hearts go out to the friends and families affected by this tragic news. In the days ahead, as we mourn the loss of a valued student and friend, you may find that you are experiencing grief, anger, frustration, and sorrow. Please don鈥檛 hesitate to ask for help or support.
The 草榴社区 Counseling Center will provide assistance to any student impacted by this incident. Students may contact the office at 360-650-3164 for support. Employees may access the Employee Assistance Program at 877-313-4455. Both numbers are available 24 hours a day.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by violence, either recently or in the past, CASAS, a confidential support service for Western students, is available at 360-650-3700, in Old Main 585B, or by contacting Deidre Evans, the CASAS coordinator, directly at 360-650-7982. DVSAS () is also available for support.
For help in supporting someone you care about, the Washington State Coalition against Domestic Violence offers helpful resources, including this .
You may also find these resources from Love Is Respect to be helpful:
I will continue to share information as it becomes available. In times of sorrow, our community鈥檚 strength and compassion are invaluable. Let鈥檚 extend comfort and kindness to one another.
With sadness,
Melynda Huskey
Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services