Family Issues Statement In Death Of WSU Fraternity Member

PULLMAN, Wash. (AP) – The family of a 19-year-old Washington State University student who died in a fraternity house this week has issued a statement.

The family says Samuel Martinez of Bellevue, Washington, was a beautiful spark of light who moved through their lives too quickly.

The statement reads: “We want you to know and remember some things about Sam — his amazing athleticism, the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled, his sharp mind, his sense of humor and his steadfast loyalty to his family and friends.”

Pullman police found the student unconscious and not breathing in the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity about 8:30 a.m. Tuesday. Police say the death may be alcohol related.

Fraternities and sororities have self-imposed a ban on social events for the rest of the semester.