A 20-year-old App State student was located and found dead in her apartment by local law enforcement yesterday, according to a news release from Boone Police.

Payton Furr, a sophomore communication, advertising major from Concord, was found dead in her home after Boone Police, Boone Fire and Watauga Medics responded to a 911 call of an unresponsive female at 161 Howard Street, apartment 210 Jan. 31 at 11:55 a.m.

Medical examiners have not yet determined Furr’s cause of death. The cause will be determined through autopsy and toxicology, according to the release.

Boone PD detectives suspect no foul play and are investigating the incident.

“This family deserves to know the facts surrounding what happened to Payton and we extend our condolences to the Furr family,” said Investigations Division Lieutenant Jon Houck in the news release.

The university confirmed Furr’s death to The Appalachian Monday.

“Our hearts are with Payton’s family during this very difficult time. We are keeping her family’s wishes and requests paramount and are providing support and assistance to them as requested,” according to a statement from university spokesperson Megan Hayes.

App State is offering “support, guidance and counseling” to the university community as needed. The university’s Counseling and Psychological Services is fully operating for students seeking support, and staff is available 24/7 for those with urgent mental health concerns.

“During operating hours, students in crisis should let the receptionist know they have an emergency to speak with a counselor as soon as possible. After hours, select the option to speak with the counselor on call,” according to the statement from Hayes.

The university encourages students to call 828-262-3180 for Counseling and Psychological Services and to visit https://counseling.appstate.edu/ for more information.

The Appalachian reached out to Boone Police for comment at the time of publication, but did not immediately hear back. This story was updated with university comment. 

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.