Dear Members of the Lehigh Community,
We are writing to let you know the status of the search for Daniel Lee, a second-year engineering student who has been missing since Jan. 20. Since our last updates to the campus community, Lehigh police have been in regular contact with Daniel’s family.
Many members of the community have expressed their concern and care for Daniel’s safety. Thank you for keeping him and his family in your thoughts. The uncertainty has been difficult for all of us in the Lehigh community, and especially for Daniel’s family, friends and loved ones.
Lehigh police continue their search efforts and are following state protocols regarding procedures for missing persons.
What we know:
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Local law enforcement from Daniel’s hometown in New Jersey has been assisting Bethlehem and Lehigh police with the search.
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Daniel’s phone and credit cards have not been used since he went missing.
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Absent new information, information has been circulating regarding concern for Daniel’s mental well-being. Out of respect for Daniel’s family, we have not shared private details that are not relevant to the search. There is a concern that self-harm may be involved.
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Foul play is not suspected in Daniel's disappearance, and there is no known danger or threat to our community connected to this incident.
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or a mental health crisis, there are counselors and resources available through Lehigh for students, faculty and staff. The University Counseling and Psychological Services (UCPS) office can be reached at 610-758-3880. Resources for faculty and staff can be accessed through the Employee Assistance Program (https://hr.lehigh.edu/benefits/EAP). You also can call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988 or using chat services at suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Concerned individuals can notify the Care Team by completing a Student Concerns Reporting Form (https://studentaffairs.lehigh.edu/content/care-team).
We know this is a difficult message to receive, and we continue to hope for Daniel’s safe return. As police continue their search, please continue to keep Daniel and his family in your thoughts.
Ricardo Hall
Vice President for Student Affairs