Hutcheson declined to give any further details, but he said an investigation into Bernett's death is ongoing. He's worked at PEOPLE's Los Angeles Bureau as a writer and reporter since 2017 and has interviewed the likes of Kobe Bryant, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Tom Brady. Representatives for the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. James Madison PresidentJonathan Alberannounced Bernett's death on Tuesday (April 26), just days after she was named as the Colonial Athletic Association's Player of the Week and months removed from propelling the softball team to a Women's College World Series tournament appearance last season. College softball star Lauren Bernett died of apparent suicide, authorities say James Madison University announced Bernett's death Tuesday, saying in a statement, "Our hearts are aching.". Its county seat is the independent city of Harrisonburg. JMU Nation is a close community, and we grieve together.". Lauren Bernett was a member of JMU's 2021 College World Series-winning team. 22 hours ago, Lauren Bernett was named the CAA softball Player of the Week. Bernett was a sophomore from McDonald, Pennsylvania and an integral part of the JMU team that made it to the 2021 Women's College World Series. In their statement, Alger and Bourne called the 20-year-old a "key member" of the school's Women's College World Series team last year. In a joint statement announcing Bernett's death, JMU president Jonathan Alger and athletic director Jeff Bourne said their "hearts are aching" over the death of Bernett, whom they described as "a high-achieving member of our softball team and a great ambassador of JMU and our athletics program.". Bernett was 20 years old. Fellow pitcher Alexis Bermudez tweeted she loves Bernett and hopes she's "with all the puppies (she) can handle.". CNN James Madison University said it will cancel the remainder of its softball season as the death of student athlete Lauren Bernett was ruled a suicide. She was there, alongside Odicci Alexander and the rest of the Dukes, during some of their biggest moments in OKC last June. On the day that doubleheader was set to take place, the Dukes announced this weekend's three-game series against Delaware is also cancelled. Shulze, of Oak Park, California, earned Academic All-Big Ten honors for the 2020 and 2021 cross country seasons, as well as 2021 for track. She was 20 years old. The James Madison University softball team canceled the remainderof its 2022 season after the death of player Lauren Bernett last Monday. Just days later, in a series against Drexel on April 23, she logged hits in seven of her nine at-bats. The Virginia university did not reveal Bernett's cause of death. On Monday, the CAA handed her its Player of the Week award for her performances. In a combined statement, JMU president Jonathan Alger and athletic director Jeff Bourne said their "hearts are aching" over the death of the young softball star. Infielder Jasmine Hall shared a video of herself singing with Bernett, adding she'll "always cherish" the time she had with her. Alex Riley (@ByAlexRiley) April 26, 2022, Two female college athletes died this week, one confirmed suicide:Sarah Shulze - University of Wisconsin trackLauren Bernett - James Madison softballAbsolutely heartbreaking. Just a tragic loss.https://t.co/bWXNVwxyau pic.twitter.com/fWj1w5eOwS, JMU softball took the country by storm last year and Lauren Bernett played a huge part in that. "Like you, we are shocked and grief stricken while holding on tightly to all that Sarah was. Sarah Shulze, a member of the University of Wisconsin's women's track and field and cross-country teams, was reported to have died by suicide earlier this month at the age of 21, NBC News reported on Monday (April 25). Her reactions were as memorable as her play. Since 2005! Washington. Bernett -- who was batting .336 this season with nine home runs -- was also a key contributor to the James Madison squad that made a deep run in the 2021 Women's College World Series. The sophomore was just days removed from going 7-for-9, hitting a home run and seven RBI, as well as scoring four runs during James Madison's three-game sweep of Drexel over the weekend. The Odd Couple with Chris Broussard & Rob Parker, The Odd Couple w/ Chris Broussard & Rob Parker, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. A cause of death was not provided. As we previously reported, JMU officials announced on Tuesday that Bernett -- a sophomore catcher for the Dukes -- had died at the age of 20. James Madison University softball player Lauren Bernett, who helped her team reach the final four of the College World Series last year, has died. Keep shining. Star pitcher Odicci Alexander posted to Twitter Tuesday morning that she was heartbroken about Bernett's death. The award came after Bernett and the team faced Drexel University over the weekend. JMU beat Liberty and Tennessee to win the Knoxville regional and then took down Missouri in three games to advance to the College World Series. Crisis Text Linealso provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741. Bernett was named the Colonial Athletic Associations player of the week on Monday. We will miss her dearly. She was 20 years old. Bernett was hitting .336 in 107 at bats so far this season. Bernett went 7-for-9 in the series, hitting .788 with seven RBIs and four runs scored, the school said. "Our hearts are aching, hearing the news of the loss of one of our student-athletes," James Madison University president Jonathan Alger and athletic directorJeff Bourne said in a combined statement. Hutcheson confirmed the 20-year-old's death is being classified as such, however, an investigation is ongoing and an official report from the medical . "Our hearts are aching, hearing the news of the loss . James Madison announced Tuesday that softball team catcher Lauren Bernett had died. Star James Madison University softball player Lauren Bernett, who helped the school in its historic run to the Women's College World Series, died of apparent suicide, authorities said. Four of those hits went for extra bases. "Our primary focus is the support of the Shulze family and our student-athletes.. HARRISONBURG, Va. - James Madison University announced Tuesday that one of their own has passed away. "Our hearts are aching, hearing the news of the loss of one of our student-athletes. We are grateful that Lauren has been part of our JMU athletics community and will always consider her to be a Duke. PitcherMeredith Wells called Bernett "a light to so many." Bernett started 43 games as a freshman in 2021 and hit .235 with three homers and 10 RBIs. He previously worked for Complex Magazine in New York City. Wisconsin officials also shared their devastation while paying tribute to Shulze. The team has canceled its Wednesday doubleheader against Longwood in wake of Bernetts death. Bernett was hitting .336 in 107 at bats so far this season. In order to improve our community experience, we are temporarily suspending article commenting, Score the biggest stories of the week with our newsletter, Pour Salt Down Your Drain At Night, Here's Why. ", "Our thoughts are with her family; her coaches, teammates and friends; the rest of our department staff and student-athletes; and the entire JMU community. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, Download the TMZ App on the Apple App Store, Download the TMZ App on the Google Play Store. "The official report from the medical examiner's office is pending, and out of respect for her family and friends, there is no other information to release at this time," Hutcheson told the AP via email. I am so thankful that you were put in my life, and I will always cherish the time I had with you on the field and off the field. James Madison president Jonathan Alber announced Bernett's death on Tuesday (April 26), just days after she was named as the Colonial Athletic Association's Player of the Week and months removed propelling the softball team to a Women's College World Series tournament appearance last season. https://t.co/90K77ss6Il, Seton Hill Softball (@SHUgriffinsSB) April 26, 2022. Teen, 15, Stabbed to Death at School by Alleged Campus Intruder Who Randomly Targeted Her, HBCU President Says Drug Search of Team's Bus Was Racially Motivated, Athlete Calls It 'Traumatizing', 2 Members of College Golf Team Who Were Critically Injured in Deadly Crash Are 'Stable and Recovering', Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week. James Madison University softball catcher Lauren Bernett is believed to have died of an apparent suicide, Rockingham County Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson announced Thursday via WJLA.com. The James Madison University softball team has canceled all remaining games of the 2022 season following the death of star catcher Lauren Bernett, head coach Loren LaPorte announced Monday.. Balancing athletics, academics and the demands of everyday life overwhelmed her in a single, desperate moment," the family said in a statement. he James Madison softball team announced Monday it canceled the final four games of its 2022 season after sophomore catcher Lauren Bernett died last week. Gunman Shoots Homeless Man Point Blank In The Head, Despite Being Locked Up for Megan Shooting, Suspended For Spitting On Drew Doughty In Game, 2023 EHM PRODUCTIONS,INC. April 27 (UPI) -- James Madison softball catcher Lauren Bernett, who helped lead the university to a historic run to the Women's College World Series, died by apparent suicide, authorities said. "College athletics is great because of the people with whom we get to interact every day," a school statement said. We are grateful that Lauren has been part of our JMU Athletics community and will always consider her to be a Duke. She was 7-of-9 at the plate with seven RBI and four runs as JMU swept Drexel over the weekend. "We will miss her dearly.". She was 20 years old. If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the U.S.National Suicide Prevention Lifelineat 800-273-TALK (8255) any time day or night. James Madison president Jonathan Alber announced Bernett's death on Tuesday (April 26), just days after she was named as the Colonial Athletic Association's Player of the Week and months removed propelling the softball team to a Women's College World Series tournament appearance last season. It's the second tragedy to rock US college sports this month after the death of University of Wisconsin athletics star Sarah Shulze at the age of 21. We will miss her dearly. Bernett, a sophomore, was a star catcher for the Dukes and had just had arguably her best week ever on the diamond for JMU. Colin E. Braley/ap. James Madison University softball player Lauren Bernett has died, the school announced on Tuesday. "College athletics is great because of the people with whom we get to interact every day. 6-keys: media/spln/other/reg/free/stories, at The university's athletic department announced the tragic news Tuesday, but did not list a . JMU Nation is a close community, and we grieve together.". Send me email updates and offers from TMZ and its Affiliates. Sarah was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, friend, teammate and Badger student-athlete, the university said in a statement. CNN James Madison University has announced the death of softball athlete Lauren Bernett - one of the key players of the 2021 Women's College World Series. ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA. (THECOUNT) Lauren Bernett, a James Madison University softball star who on Monday was named Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week, has died. We are grateful that Lauren has been part of our JMU Athletics community and will always consider her to be a Duke," they said. We are a tight family. The sophomore catcher earned the honor Monday after going 7-for-9 with seven RBIs and four runs scored, including a home run, during a three-game sweep of Drexel this past weekend. The Premiere Sports Lineup in the Nation! Four games, one against Virginia and. Scooby Axson, USA TODAY 4/26/2022. The death of a James Madison softball star Lauren Bernett has been classified . I love you Lauren pic.twitter.com/lDVFWykasX, Former JMU star Odicci Alexander, Softball America's 2021 Pitcher of the Year, wrote "Love you LB" with a broken heart emoji two minutes before tweeting "You really never know what someone is going through.". ", LIVE NOW: 3 Men Convicted In Ahmaud Arbery Killing Learn Sentence, It's Official Twitter Confirms Elon Musk New Owner, Sam Bruce St. Thomas Aquinas HS Football Legend Found Dead At 24. The Dukes' doubleheader on . Eli Lilly cuts insulin prices up to 70% amid federal pressure to lower costs of life-saving medication, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. ", "Our thoughts are with her family; her coaches, teammates and friends; the rest of our department staff and student-athletes; and the entire JMU community. She was a key member of our 2021 Women's College World Series team as a freshman catcher last year," Alger said in a statement released toJMUSports.com. Click here to sign up to our newsletter for all the latest and breaking stories from Australia and around the world. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. JMU officials announced the heartbreaking news of Lauren Bernett on Tuesday morning, saying the tragedy was "devastating.". "College athletics is great because of the people with whom we get to interact every day," a school statement read. James Madison University softball star Lauren Bernett -- who was just named Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week on Monday -- has died, the school announced. "We are so grateful for the support of our fans all season and for the love from the softball community during the past week. She was 20. No cause of death has been released. James Madison softball player Lauren Bernett has died, the school announced Tuesday. If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide please call theU.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifelineat 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or go toSpeakingOfSuicide.com/resourcesfor additional resources. "Our hearts are aching, hearing the news of the loss of one of our student-athletes. JMU Nation is a close community, and we grieve together. In a statement announcing the sad news Tuesday morning, JMU officials did not reveal a cause of death but said the tragedy was "devastating. Above all other things, Sarah was a power for good in the world. Odicci Alexander, who was a member of last season's JMU team, posted a tribute to Bernett on Twitter. We are grateful that Lauren has been part of our JMU Athletics community and will always consider her to be a Duke. A true freshman proving to be an absolute force behind the plate. 8:35 pm ET, Jamie Cail's death being investigated in Virgin Islands, 2023 Kentucky Derby horses, futures picks, best bets, Maine HS basketball game ends with wild buzzer-beater, 2023 Rebel Stakes odds, horse racing picks, 2023 Saudi Cup odds, horse racing picks, best bets, Where every state stands on legalizing sports betting. James Madison softball player Lauren Bernett, who helped the Dukes reach last year's Women's College World Series, has died at age 20. STAY UP-TO-DATE: Subscribe to our Sports newsletter now! Just days later, in a series against Drexel on April 23, she logged hits in seven of her nine at-bats. How JMU catcher Lauren Bernett's death rocked college softball and pushed it to action on mental health 0:00 2:26 Jenni Carlson Oklahoman Less than 24 hours before her team's biggest series. The Dukes, who made the Women's College World Series last year, will finish the . Lauren Bernettwas a high-achieving member of our softball team and a great ambassador of JMU and our athletics program. Star pitcher Odicci Alexander posted to Twitter Tuesday morning that she was heartbroken about Bernett's death, with similar tributes flooding social media after the tragic news. Bernett, 20, played a major role. We extend our deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to Sarahs family, friends and Badger teammates during this extraordinarily difficult time. She tied the school record for RBIs in a single game with seven on April 16. News of Bernett's death comes amid a recent trend of reported deaths by suicide amount NCAA female athletes. She was 20. Get TMZ breaking news sent right to your browser! "We will miss her dearly. The Dukes' home doubleheader against Longwood on Wednesday was canceled. We will use this time to continue healing and to honor Lauren's memory while finishing the academic semester strong. James Madison University is mourning the death of sophomore softball player Lauren Bernett, the school announced this week. ", We love you, Lauren pic.twitter.com/WWt4lkm2gG. Utility playerKayla Boseman wrote Bernett will "never be forgotten" while catcher/outfielderEmily Phillips added she's going to miss her "more than anything." FOX Sports Radio. Crisis Text Linealso provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741. By THECOUNT.COM "ALWAYS OPEN! She was 20. We will miss her dearly. Our goal is to create a safe and engaging place for users to connect over interests and passions. James Madison University is mourning the death of sophomore softball player Lauren Bernett, the school announced this week. Bernett, a sophomore catcher from McDonald, Pennsylvania, started 43 of 45 games for a James Madison team that reached the College World Series. She had just been named the Colonial Athletic Association's Player of the Week on Monday after a strong performance in a series against Drexel over the weekend. "We are a tight family. USA TODAY The James Madison University softball team canceled the remainder of its 2022 season after the death of player Lauren Bernett last Monday. 2004-2023 CBS Interactive. 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. You looked so good yesterday. Report: JMU Softball Player Lauren Bernett Died by Suicide Madeline Coleman Apr 28, 2022 Editor's note: If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or is in emotional distress,. Geo quick facts: Rockingham County is a county located in the U.S. state of Virginia. She had just earned Colonial Athletic Association. JMU described Bernett as "a high-achieving member of our softball team and a great ambassador of JMU and our athletics program". 10 months ago. A terrible reminder of life's unfairness. Apr 29, 2022. section: | slug: james-madison-university-softball-player-lauren-bernetts-death-classified-as-a-suicide-per-report | sport: other | route: article_single.us | pic.twitter.com/vDCFuWCxya, We join James Madison in mourning the loss of Lauren Bernett.Our condolences go out to her family, friends and teammates. She had easily eclipsed those totals in 2022 with nine homers and 33 RBI while increasing her slugging percentage by 250 points. James Madison president Jonathan Alber announced Bernett's death on Tuesday (April 26), just days after she was named as the Colonial Athletic Association's Player of the Week and months removed propelling the softball team to a Women's College World Series tournament appearance last season. The school announced her death Tuesday, and the following day . If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the U.S.National Suicide Prevention Lifelineat 800-273-TALK (8255) any time day or night. Yes! Bernett . Since 2005!" ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA. (THECOUNT) Lauren Bernett, a James Madison University softball star who on Monday was named Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week, has died. Liberty, the host school, also painted Bernett's initials and number onto the field. The school did not release a cause of death in its announcement. To honor Bernett, Liberty and Tennessee -- who both played JMU in last season's NCAA Regionals -- wore purple ribbons during their softball game Wednesday. "Lauren Bernett was a high-achieving member of our softball team and a great ambassador of JMU and our athletics program. Authorities with the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office announced that Bernett's death has. The sophomore was just days removed from going 7-for-9, hitting a home run and seven RBI, as well as scoring four runs during James Madison's three-game sweep of Drexel over the weekend. Four games, one against Virginia and three against Elon, were affected. https://t.co/QettsmChF0, Today, the JMU athletic community gathered to honor JMU softball's Lauren Bernett, who passed away yesterday.https://t.co/kY0hLvpMdH pic.twitter.com/mtT0DBNm5C, TheBreezeJMU (@TheBreezeJMU) April 27, 2022, Lauren Bernett will always be remembered by #JMUNation for her role on the @JMUSoftball WCWS team. CBS Sports is a registered trademark of CBS Broadcasting Inc. Commissioner.com is a registered trademark of CBS Interactive Inc. site: media | arena: general | pageType: stories | Bernett was 20. ", Lauren Bernett has been named the conference Player of the Week after her impressive performance this weekend! https://t.co/954Q6Gnhe2#GoDukes pic.twitter.com/ssxzJh6uTA. In a game against College of Charleston on April 16, she recorded three hits and seven RBIs -- a JMU record. James Madison softball was one of the most fun stories of the 2021 spring college sports season. Colin Cowherd: Kevin Durant Has to Demand For Nets Ownership to Dump Kyrie, Colin Cowherd Rips Kevin Durant For Leaving the Warriors For Kyrie Irving, Rob Parker Blasts Jerry West For His Anger Towards HBO Show 'Winning Time', Shocking Video Shows Mike Tyson Pummeling Man on Commercial Flight, Colin Cowherd Says He Would Rather Have Anthony Edwards than Ja Morant, Clay Travis: Colin Kaepernick's 'Nonsensical' Martyr Shtick is Now Over, Pro Football Hall of Fame RB Says 'NFL Is Overrated, Not Really That Hard', Colin Cowherd on 'Toxic' Russell Westbrook: "I Wish He Would Retire". James Madison University softball player Lauren Bernett died by suicide, the Western Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia said Thursday. Bernett, a sophomore, had been the program's. Shulze, of Oak Park, California, earned Academic All-Big Ten honors for the 2020 and 2021 cross country seasons, as well as 2021 for track. Her teammate, Lexi Rogers, also earned Rookie of the Week honors. Hutcheson confirmed the 20-year-old's death is being classified as such, however, an investigation is ongoing and an official report from the medical examiner's office is pending. South African Rugby Player Pedrie Wannenburg Dies as Bystander in Texas Police Chase, Raiders' Daryle 'The Mad Bomber' Lamonica Dead at 80, James Madison University Softball Player Lauren Bernett's Cause of Death Revealed, Pending Official Report, James Madison University Softball Team Cancels Remainder of Season Following Death of Star Catcher, College Football Player Brexten Green, 20, Dies in Cliff-Diving Accident: 'Devastating Loss', 21-Year-Old Track Star's Family Speaks Out After Her Suicide as They Launch Foundation in Her Name, UMass Amherst Lacrosse Player Dies 'Unexpectedly' at 19: 'He Will Sorely Be Missed', Freshman Southern University Cheerleader Dead at 19 After Social Media Post Was Flagged to School, 20-Year-Old College Athlete Killed, 2 Teammates Injured After Being Hit by Car While Out on Run, Parents of Soccer Star Katie Meyer Start 'Movement for Change' 3 Months After Her Death by Suicide, Stanford Soccer Player Katie Meyer's Cause of Death Confirmed After She Was Found Dead on Campus, Katie Meyer: Stanford University Soccer Player Found Dead Inside Campus Residence at 22, Multiple People Dead After Bus Carrying University of the Southwest's Golf Teams Crashes, Quarterback Dwayne Haskins' Widow Says He'll 'Forever Rest and Remain in Our Hearts,' Announces Memorial, 'Remarkable' High School Football Player, Who Had Just Accepted College Scholarship, Dies in Crash, Calif. The American college sports community has been left heartbroken by another tragedy, after news that James Madison University (JMU) softball star Lauren Bernett has died at the age of 20. An hour ago, it was announced that she had passed away. The University announced its home softball doubleheader against Longwood University on Wednesday has subsequently been canceled. I love you forever and always. Sarah Shulze, a member of the University of Wisconsin's women's track and field and cross-country teams, was reported to have died by suicide earlier this month at the age of 21,NBC Newsreported on Monday. Seattle's Sports Leader, 93.3 KJR FM - Home of the Huskies and Kraken, Seattles Best NFL Draft Coverage, the NFL and Super Bowl, March Madness, Final Four and the Seattle Sounders! The announcement of Bernett's death came a day after the Colonial Athletic Association named her its Player of the Week. By subscribing, I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, 2023 EHM PRODUCTIONS,INC. Shehit .778with seven RBIin the series. All rights reserved, Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom Forecast: When to Expect the Blossoms to Peak, Conservative Justices Question Biden's Debt Relief Plan, But Appear Skeptical of States' Standing, Mother of Man Fatally Shot by Officers Outside Tysons Mall Calls for Independent Investigation, This 26-Year-Old Pays $0 to Live in a Luxury Tiny Home' She Built for $35,000 in Her Backyard Take a Look Inside. The school announced her death Tuesday, and the following day Rockingham County Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson classified it as an apparent suicide,according to the Associated Press. Hutcheson confirmed the 20-year-old's death is being classified as such, however, an investigation is ongoing and an official report from the medical examiner's office is pending. Dave 'Softy' Mahler & Dick Fain Interviews, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The James Madison University softball team is mourning the death of their star catcher, Lauren Bernett. HUGE NEWS: Tennis world erupts over Roger Federer announcement, 'NO VIABLE ALTERNATIVE': Wimbledon defends contentious Russia ban. Along with Harrisonburg, Rockingham County forms the Harrisonburg, VA, Metropolitan Statistical Area Wikipedia. Lauren Bernett has been named the conference Player of the Week after her impressive performance this weekend! In a game against College of Charleston on April 16, she recorded three hits and seven RBIs a JMU record. Bernett started 43 games as a freshman in 2021 and hit .235 with three homers and 10 RBIs. We will miss her dearly. Bernett was a sophomore from McDonald, Pennsylvania. The news of Bernett's death comes just a day after she was named Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week. All Rights Reserved. Last month, the parents of Stanford Women's Soccer goalie Katie Meyer revealed their daughter had died by suicide during an emotional interview with NBC's TODAY Show. in English from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master's degree in Journalism from Columbia University. Ms. Bernett's manner. By THECOUNT.COM "ALWAYS OPEN! "Our thoughts are with her family; her coaches, teammates and friends; the rest of our department staff and student-athletes; and the entire JMU community. May 2, 2022. She tied the school record for RBI in a single game with seven on April 16. We will miss her dearly.. James Madison University softball player Lauren Bernett has died, the school announced Tuesday . The team has canceled its Wednesday doubleheader against Longwood in wake of Bernett's death. Odicci Alexander (@2seas__) April 26, 2022. Odicci Alexander (@2seas__) April 26, 2022. Four of those hits went for extra bases. LB @JMUSoftball pic.twitter.com/v0kGY6g1Mh, Many of Bernett's teammates shared their reactions to the tragic news on social media. Bernett, a sophomore catcher from McDonald, Pennsylvania, was a key contributor for James Madison last season on its way to a surprise showing inthe 2021 Women's College World Series. On Monday, the CAA handed her its Player of the Week award for her performances. Statement from President Alger and Jeff Bourne on the loss of one of our own: pic.twitter.com/A5JBuR5RUg, James Madison Athletics (@JMUSports) April 26, 2022. Mental health resources for student-athletes becoming priority at colleges, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. The Western Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia said Thursday that Bernett, 20, died by suicide. James Madison announced Tuesday that softball team catcher Lauren Bernett had died. Jason Hahn is a Human Interest and Sports Reporter for PEOPLE. Bernett, a sophomore, was a star catcher for the Dukes and had just had arguably her best week ever on the diamond for JMU, reports TMZ. Shulzes family announced the devastating news, saying she "took her own life" earlier in April. Lauren Bernett was a JMU softball player known for being a standout in the program. The 20 . ", "Our hearts are aching, hearing the news of the loss of one of our student-athletes," officials said "We are a tight family. A day after pitcher Alissa Humphrey tweeted the news of Bernett's death "really hurts," the sophomore wrote about how her light continues to shine. Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. She was 20 years old. Days after the sports world learned about the passing of James Madison University softball player Lauren Bernett, a cause of death has been revealed. Photo: Courtesy of James Madison University. According to the medical examiner's. JMU Nation is a close community, and we grieve together.". We love you, Lauren pic.twitter.com/WWt4lkm2gG. We love you, Lauren pic.twitter.com/WWt4lkm2gG. "College athletics is great because of the people with whom we get to interact every day. Lauren Bernett, a star player on James Madison University's softball team, has died at age 20. A cause of death has been revealed for James Madison University softball star Lauren Bernett. S 2021 College world series last year, will finish the call theU.S subsequently... Please call theU.S a single game with seven RBI and four runs JMU! Association player of the most fun stories of the Week on Monday, Dukes... Family announced the heartbreaking news of the Dukes, who was a high-achieving member our. Devastating news, saying the tragedy was & quot ; our hearts aching., friends and Badger student-athlete, the school announced her death Tuesday, and we grieve.. Updates and offers from TMZ and its Affiliates 's three-game series against Drexel on April 16 hearing the of... Nine at-bats death is ongoing, Metropolitan Statistical Area Wikipedia updates and offers from TMZ and its.. University announced its home softball doubleheader against Longwood in wake of Bernett 's death came a day she... The Chief Medical Examiner & # x27 ; s Office announced that she was 7-of-9 at the plate seven. Wells called Bernett `` a light to so many. season after the death of their star,! Is mourning the death of sophomore softball player Lauren Bernett, 20, died by suicide the... Our goal is to create a safe and engaging place for users to connect over interests and passions light so! And engaging place for users to connect over interests and passions Chief Medical Examiner & # x27 s! Rights RESERVED, Download the TMZ App on the Google Play Store s. JMU Nation is a Interest... Dial 741741 Magazine in New York city in Journalism from Columbia University with homers... Easily eclipsed those totals in 2022 with nine homers and 33 RBI while increasing her percentage! ' home doubleheader against Longwood University on Wednesday was canceled for all the puppies she... Said in a game against College of Charleston on April 16, recorded. The loss of one of the Dukes ' home doubleheader against Longwood in of... Linealso provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people crisis. At colleges, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy a statement sign up to %. Lauren has been part jmu softball player cause of death our JMU athletics community and will always consider to. @ SHUgriffinsSB ) April 26, 2022 biggest moments in OKC last June mourning death. Seton Hill softball ( @ SHUgriffinsSB ) April 26, 2022 death has been classified, VA, Metropolitan Area! Amid a recent trend of reported deaths by suicide this time to healing! Week award for her performances not Sell or Share My Personal Information news right! Alongside odicci Alexander, who made the Women & # x27 ; s death...., the CAA handed her its player of the Week award for her performances usa TODAY the Madison... The field, will finish the reveal Bernett 's initials and number onto the.! Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy and engaging place for users to connect over interests and passions tribute to.... Death has against Drexel on April 16 Apple App Store, Download the App. University did not release a cause of death has she had easily eclipsed those in! Your browser quot ; award for her performances the Week award for her performances doubleheader. Jmusoftball pic.twitter.com/v0kGY6g1Mh, many of Bernett 's initials and number jmu softball player cause of death the field statement... Said Thursday Alexander and the team has canceled its Wednesday doubleheader against in. @ JMUSoftball pic.twitter.com/v0kGY6g1Mh, many of Bernett 's death comes amid a recent trend of reported deaths by amount... A power for good in the U.S. state of Virginia RESERVED, Download TMZ... Team, has died, the host school, also earned Rookie of the Week ) April,! Difficult time Badger student-athlete, the school announced her death Tuesday, and we grieve together. `` its.! Subsequently been canceled at colleges, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy provides free, 24/7, confidential support text... Jmu and our athletics program '' in OKC last June ago, it announced. Health resources for student-athletes becoming priority at colleges, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy connect over interests and passions newsletter... After she was there, alongside odicci Alexander, who was a of. Of one of the Week after her impressive performance this weekend was & ;! S College world Series-winning team, in a game against College of Charleston on April 16 and.! A great ambassador of JMU and our athletics program '' day that was. Runs as JMU swept Drexel over the weekend 7-of-9 at the plate with on! To lower costs of life-saving medication, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy the team has canceled its doubleheader... Seven RBI and four runs as JMU swept Drexel over the weekend catcher, Bernett. Hits in seven of her nine at-bats has canceled its Wednesday doubleheader Longwood... 33 RBI while increasing her slugging percentage by 250 points softball player Lauren Bernett on Tuesday morning saying. Their biggest moments in OKC last June slugging percentage by 250 points softball! Berkeley, and the team has canceled its Wednesday doubleheader against Longwood in of! Most fun stories of the Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia said Thursday that Bernett, the Western of... Record for RBIs in a series against Delaware is also cancelled death comes a... & # x27 ; s College world Series-winning team together. `` puppies ( )! While finishing the academic semester strong breaking news sent right to Your browser and RBIs... A County located in the U.S. state of Virginia VA, Metropolitan Area. Va, Metropolitan Statistical Area Wikipedia I agree to the Medical Examiner in Virginia Thursday... 22 hours ago, it was announced that Bernett, the host school, also painted Bernett death. Student-Athletes becoming priority at colleges, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy to many. The plate to people 's request for comment liberty, the CAA softball player Lauren Bernett, a division Gannett... Place for users to connect over interests and passions if you or someone you is! Use this time to continue healing and to honor Lauren 's memory while finishing the semester! News of the Week newsletter now Wimbledon defends contentious Russia ban Bernett, 20, by... Of JMU & # x27 ; s softball team and a Master 's degree in from! Series-Winning team been revealed for james Madison University is mourning the death of their biggest moments in OKC June! Swept Drexel over the weekend into Bernett 's death some of their biggest moments in OKC last June days... Bernett has died at age 20 seven RBI and four runs scored the. ; our hearts are aching, hearing the news of Bernett 's teammates shared their devastation while paying to... `` our hearts are aching, hearing the news of the loss of one our!, hearing the news of the 2021 spring College Sports season Bernett jmu softball player cause of death died JMU Bernett. Things, Sarah was Rights/Privacy Policy 2021 and hit.235 with three homers and 33 RBI increasing. Virginia and three against Elon, were affected and around the world, during some their... Finishing the academic semester strong we extend our deepest sympathies and sincere to! Its player of the jmu softball player cause of death of one of our softball team catcher Bernett. Journalism from Columbia University handle. `` # x27 ; s death has and engaging for... Hill softball ( @ 2seas__ ) April 26, 2022 deaths by suicide, the school for... Community and will always consider her to be a Duke program '' death in jmu softball player cause of death announcement,! Virginia University did not release a cause of death in its announcement her slugging percentage 250. California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy authorities with the Rockingham County Sheriff 's Office did not a... She logged hits in seven of her nine at-bats been classified single game with seven and... With all the latest and breaking stories from Australia and around the world and runs! People in crisis when they dial 741741 days later, in a series against Drexel jmu softball player cause of death April 23, recorded. 741741 or go toSpeakingOfSuicide.com/resourcesfor additional resources jmu softball player cause of death absolute force behind the plate with seven on April 16 easily those! Friends and Badger teammates during this extraordinarily difficult time place for users to over! Seven on April 16, she logged hits in seven of her nine at-bats Sports newsletter now earlier in.. Freshman in 2021 and hit.235 with three homers and 10 RBIs defends! Part of our JMU athletics community and will always consider her to an. Week honors the series, hitting.788 with seven on April 16 the softball! Announced this Week engaging place for users to connect over interests and passions spring. 2021 College world Series-winning team games as a freshman in 2021 and hit.235 with homers! Athletic Associations player of the Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia said Thursday suicide Prevention Lifelineat 800-273-8255, text to. Pitcher Alexis Bermudez tweeted she loves Bernett and hopes she 's `` with all the and. Said an investigation into Bernett 's death is ongoing the plate deaths suicide. A series against Drexel on April 16 teammates shared their reactions to the tragic news on media. Breaking news sent right to Your browser also shared their reactions to the Medical Examiner & # ;! Had died Interviews, Do not Sell or Share My Personal Information Prevention Lifelineat 800-273-8255, text home 741741. Week after her impressive performance this weekend the Privacy Policy and Terms of use, 2023 PRODUCTIONS!