Friday, September 25, 2009

The body of a University of North Carolina Wilmington student was recovered this afternoon at Wrightsville Beach by the U.S. Coast Guard. John Edward Sackett of Annapolis, Md., an 18-year-old freshman, was killed while surfing with a group of friends when a thunderstorm came up suddenly. All were able to return to shore safely except for Sackett. The cause of death is undetermined at this time.

"The entire campus community is deeply saddened by this loss of a member of the UNCW family," said Chancellor Rosemary DePaolo. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to John's family and friends during this very difficult time."