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UPDATED: UK student dies of apparent 'alcohol toxicity.' He was found at frat house.

Lexington Herald-Leader - 10/19/2021

Oct. 19—The University of Kentucky student found unresponsive at the FarmHouse Fraternity likely died of alcohol toxicity, according to Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn.

Ginn identified the student as Thomas "Lofton" Hazelwood, 18, of Henderson. Toxicology tests are pending.

The UK Police Department was called to the FarmHouse Fraternity at approximately 6:22 p.m. Monday for reports of an unresponsive student, university spokesman Jay Blanton said.

Hazelwood, who was a fraternity member, was taken to the hospital, but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful, Blanton said. Hazelwood, a first-year student, was majoring in agricultural economics, Blanton said.

"Foul play is not suspected, but police are investigating the circumstances of his death," Blanton said.

"UK officials are offering support services to members of the fraternity as well as his family and classmates," Blanton said of the fraternity member who died. "The thoughts of the entire UK community are with his family and all those who knew the student."

Hazelwood's mother Tracey Hazelwood said Tuesday afternoon that the family didn't know anything yet about his cause of death or the investigation.

"He was an old soul," she said. "Such a good boy. Loved his family and friends."

She said he never left his family without saying, "I love you."

Tracey Hazelwood said Lofton had three older sisters. "He was the baby and we all babied him," she said.

She said Lofton fell in love with farming after farming all last summer. She said he loved 70s and 80s music.

He was, Tracey Hazelwood said, a "great, great kid."

Blanton said Tuesday morning that "there is an ongoing investigation. I'm not going to comment further at this time while the investigation is just underway."

Blanton said UK officials will provide updates "as we have more information with respect to the student and the investigation."

Blanton said no other fraternity members were taken to the hospital. "We had officials at the hospital last night to support the student and his family as well as other students who showed up to offer support. There was one student brought to the hospital from FarmHouse."

Tomblinson Funeral Home in Henderson is in charge of arrangements.

This story was originally published October 19, 20217:15 AM.

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