PRINCETON, N.J. -- A Princeton University undergraduate student who had been missing since last weekend has been found dead. The body of Lauren Blackburn was discovered at Lake Carnegie on Friday morning, April 25, 2025, as confirmed by university officials. The lake is located adjacent to Princeton's campus.
Dean of Undergraduate Students Regan Crotty expressed the university's sorrow in a statement, saying, "Our hearts are heavy and we share our deepest condolences with Lauren's family and friends." The statement continued to emphasize the importance of community support during such difficult times.
Blackburn, a 23-year-old English student, was last seen around 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, near the Firestone Library on campus. Following her disappearance, search efforts were intensified by the university's Department of Public Safety, which included a Tiger Alert issued to the campus community.
In the days leading up to her discovery, crews had been actively searching Lake Carnegie and its surroundings. The university’s Vice President for Student Life, W. Rochelle Calhoun, had previously expressed great concern for Blackburn’s well-being, stating in an April 22 email, "It is with great concern that I write to let you know that Lauren Blackburn ’26 of New College West has been reported missing."
Blackburn was reported to be wearing blue jeans with torn knees, a yellow t-shirt, and a black hooded sweatshirt at the time she was last seen. She graduated as valedictorian from Corydon Central High School in Corydon, Indiana, in 2019 and received a prestigious Gates Scholarship, which covered her tuition, books, room, and board at Princeton.
Reflecting on her time at Princeton, Blackburn had previously remarked, "Princeton was my favorite because of the focus they put on their undergraduates. I’m very grateful and feel very blessed. Princeton will allow me to study anything and get a world class education in anything," according to local news outlet WAVE.
As the community mourns her loss, Princeton University has made counseling services available to students affected by this tragedy. Crotty's statement included resources for students, urging them to reach out for support. She noted that "students should not hesitate to reach out to Counseling and Psychological Services (which can be reached 24 hours a day at 609-258-3141), Office of Religious Life chaplains, residential college staff, and Graduate School staff."
In the wake of Blackburn’s death, many have expressed their condolences and shared fond memories of her. A teacher from her high school, Kate Robinson, described Blackburn as highly intelligent, stating, "He can read a book and know everything in it. I’m pretty sure he has a photographic memory." This sentiment echoes the feelings of many who knew her and appreciated her academic prowess.
As investigations continue, the cause of Blackburn’s death has not yet been disclosed, and it remains unclear if foul play is suspected. Authorities focused their search efforts on Lake Carnegie after Blackburn’s cellphone was traced near the area.
Princeton University has encouraged its community members to gather and support one another during this challenging time, with deans and counselors available to assist. Crotty concluded her message by stating, "We know that every member of our community joins us in sending our condolences to Lauren’s family, friends, and loved ones and in wishing them strength in this most difficult time."
The tragic loss of Lauren Blackburn has left a profound impact on the Princeton community, highlighting the importance of mental health support and the need for connection during times of grief. As friends, family, and fellow students come together to honor her memory, they reflect on the bright future that was tragically cut short.
