Four students hospitalized in possible drug incident

Campus police are investigating the circumstances that led to four students being hospitalized Monday night.

Campus security was called to Frey Living Center in Allendale around 7:15 p.m. because of reports of several students who were acting erratically and showing symptoms of having perhaps ingested a street drug.
 
All four of the students were transported to Spectrum Butterworth in Grand Rapids for medical treatment.
 
"The hospitalization of our students is heartbreaking -- to family, friends, roommates, and to the campus community. This sad but avoidable incident points out what happens when good students make poor choices," said Grand Valley President Thomas J. Haas. "We must all help each other to stay safe, to avoid illegal drugs, and to seek immediate help for those in need. Toward that end, I want to thank the students who called campus safety for assistance last evening; their willingness to become involved made a real difference."
 
Family members of the affected students were notified Monday night. Housing and Counseling Center staff were on campus Monday night and continue to work with friends and others on campus.

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Bart Merkle, vice provost and dean of students, said the university is continuing to work with families and friends involved (AUDIO).

Eric Klingensmith, coordinator of crisis services, said the university has effective alcohol and drug prevention programs (AUDIO).

Klingensmith said the university has programs in place for students who are struggling with substance abuse (AUDIO).