CU Boulder student Megan Trussell’s death ruled suicide

CU Boulder Freshman Megan Trussell’s Death Ruled a Suicide

Boulder County Coroner and Sheriff’s Office Release Findings
On May 27, 2025, Boulder County Coroner Jeff Martin and Sheriff Curtis Johnson concluded a months‑long investigation into the disappearance and death of 18‑year‑old CU Boulder freshman Megan Trussell . According to official reports:

Trussell was last seen leaving her dorm around 9:30 p.m. on February 9; reported missing three days later .

Her body was recovered on February 15 near the 40‑mile marker on Boulder Canyon Drive—terrain so remote a technical rappel rescue was necessary .

Toxicology showed toxic levels of amphetamine in her system, with hypothermia as a contributing factor; the manner of death was officially ruled suicide .

Investigators from the Coroner’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, DA’s Office, CU Police, and FBI found no evidence of foul play .

Timeline & Recovery of Belongings
Cell‑phone data and security footage traced Trussell’s last movements from campus toward Boulder Canyon Drive . Her phone was later found at a resale kiosk, sold by an unhoused individual, who was arrested on May 14 for theft and false statements . On March 5, her purse was discovered near the scene .

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Family Disputes Official Ruling

Parents Demand Reassessment
Trussell’s mother, Vanessa Diaz, and father, Joe Trussell, strongly contest the suicide ruling, alleging inconsistencies:

They argue the toxicology report did not show lethal prescription drug levels, and that the prescription amphetamines were for her ADHD .

They point to physical injuries—head bruising, chipped teeth, blunt-force trauma, and a missing shoe—as signs that may indicate a struggle or foul play .

They assert the investigation was rushed—finding her phone and purse before law enforcement—and are pursuing a private autopsy and further legal review .

Diaz stated, “Let me add that Megan has never been suicidal or demonstrated self‑injurious behavior” , and described the sheriff’s office as “dismissive and disrespectful” .

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Legislative Push for Reform

State Senator Advocates Transparency
Colorado State Senator Janice Marchman, whose daughter is friends with Trussell, is now sponsoring legislation in response to the case . Proposed reforms include:

Clearer protocols for logging evidence in missing-persons or death investigations.

Improved communication and access for families seeking information.

Options for families to contest cause‑of‑death determinations, including pursuing independent autopsies.

Marchman emphasized, “We can prevent this for other families in the future” .

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Community Impact & Next Steps

Search for Answers Continues

The family has raised over $70,000 via GoFundMe to finance private lab analyses and legal steps .

The Boulder County Coroner’s Office has agreed to further analyze the pill material found during Megan’s autopsy .

Meanwhile, Boulder College and local leaders mourn the loss, offering condolences and mental-health resources such as 988 Lifeline .

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What Happens Next

Stakeholder Next Steps

Trussell family Proceed with private autopsy; review official records in depth; consider legal action
Boulder County Await results of further medication analysis; support Senator Marchman’s bills
Colorado Legislature Debate and possibly adopt new transparency and oversight measures
Community & CU Boulder Continue offering grief support; monitor updates in investigation or legislation

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Megan Trussell’s death has become a focal point—one where bereaved parents are challenging official conclusions, lawmakers are pushing for change, and a grieving community seeks solace and clarity.