A California University of Pennsylvania student was found dead on Sunday, and initial reports indicate that chewing gum could have contributed to the cause of death.
Shanice Clark, 21, was found unresponsive by her roommate after falling out of bed around 3am. She was pronounced dead at Monongahela Valley Hospital.
Clark was from Toronto, Ontario, in Canada, and was a star basketball player at Cedarbrae Collegiate Institute in Scarborough before coming to the States. A senior, she lived in the Vulcan Village off-campus apartments.
According to California Borough Police Chief Rick Encapera, a "preliminary report from the attending medical personnel was that the patient aspirated on chewing gum while she was sleeping."
The campus was shaken by the sudden death.
"It's sad," said junior Lauren Buck. "I never would think you would choke on something like that, you know? My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. It's going to be a sad couple days here on campus."
Cal U interim president Geraldine M. Jones released a statement on Monday.
"On behalf of California University of Pennsylvania, I extend my deepest sympathy to all of Shanice's friends and family," she wrote. "She will be missed by her teammates and coaches, her classmates and by the entire campus community."
The school's athletic director also offered her condolences.
"Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Shanice Clark," Karen Hjerpe said in a statement. "Shanice was a bright student and talented player. Her smile and personality will be missed."
The basketball team's Wednesday game against Gannon University was postponed until Thursday.
Clark aspired to enter broadcasting following her basketball career.
