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aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Western student dies after fall in Arboretum 

University officials are sorry to report the sad and tragic loss of a Western student, who died over the weekend in what appears to be an accidental fall while rock climbing in the Arboretum adjacent to the university’s main campus in Bellingham. 

Elliot Scott, 22, a Western senior from Snohomish, was climbing up a rock face in the Arboretum when he apparently fell. His body was reported to police by a hiker on Monday. 

The Western community offers its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Elliot Scott. 

The Bellingham Police Department is investigating the incident. The Whatcom County Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death. 

There are resources available for ²ÝÁñÉçÇø students, faculty and staff in the wake of tragic incidents such as these: 

  • Western's Counseling Center staff is available to meet or speak with any student remotely. Information on how to connect with a counselor can be found at . 

  • The Washington State Employee Assistance Program is a resource available for faculty and staff. EAP counselors are available for in-person or phone appointments. The EAP office can be reached by calling 877-313-4455 (toll free). The toll-free after-hours help line is 866-704-6364. TDD/TYY users, please call via WA Relay at 711.