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FSU Student Found Dead During Excursion in University's Summer International Program

Briana McHam
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla., (WTXL) -- A sad day for Florida State University, after learning a student, in the university's International Programs, died in a serious accident, according to FSU.

The summer program was hosted by the Rabin Center in Jerusalem.

FSU said 20-year-old Briana McHam, of Pompano Beach, Florida died during an excursion to Masada.

Masada, under the authority of Israel's National Park System, is an ancient fortification in the Southern District of Israel that sits on top of an isolated rock plateau overlooking the Dead Sea.

FSU said, they have confirmed that three students, including McHam, decided to walk down to the bottom of the fortification. Two completed the walk without any harm, but McHam was found dead.

Her emergency contact was immediately notified and the university began to provide other students in the program with counseling services, said FSU.

Director of International Programs, Dr. James Pitts, said “We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our students, who was at the beginning of a life of discovery broadening her horizons." Adding, they will assist McHam's family in any way possible, as well as other students who may be affected by this tragedy.

FSU International Programs said they are working closely with local officials to investigate McHam's death.