The person found in Griffy Lake Friday, Oct. 2, has been identified as IU student Joseph Smedley, who was reported missing earlier this week, according to a Monroe County Sheriff's Office statement.
The cause of death is consistent with drowning.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and Bloomington Police Department are continuing the investigation.
As of 6:32 p.m. Friday, the BPD responded to a report of a body in Griffy Lake. The body was identified as a male.
IUPD blocked off the entire road leading up to the lake Friday evening.
Kristopher A. Fuller, the attorney representing the Smedley family, released a statement on behalf of the family regarding Joseph's death.
"We are heartbroken by this mornings developments and still processing the events of the last six days," the statement reads. "Joseph was an intelligent and loving son, brother and friend. While we mourn his loss, we ask that you respect our privacy and direct any questions to our family spokesperson and attorney Kristopher A. Fuller. If you have any information that may help in the investigation of Joseph's death, please contact the Bloomington Police Department at 812-339-4477 as this investigation is ongoing. We are currently setting up a memorial fund and GoFundMe account to help with the costs associated with Joseph's funeral services – these accounts will be shared when they are available."
This story will be updated. Read our full coverage of missing student Smedley here.
Alyson Malinger and Ashleigh Sherman
