On Tuesday, in Arvada, Colorado, 47-year-old Middle School teacher Gretchen Krohnfeldt was found dead in her home from a suspected suicide. The mother-of-three was found a day after she was accused of being inappropriately involved with a former student. Krohnfeldt worked for Jefferson County since 1993, teaching English and Social Studies.
The day before the incident, Krohnfeldt was placed on administrative leave at Drake Middle School. During this time an investigation was pending to determine Krohnfeldt's alleged relationship with a male student.
An investigation was launched after a resource officer was informed by a faculty member of allegations of Krohnfeldt's relationship with the student months prior.
Local reporters published that the faculty member claimed to have seen Krohnfeldt engage in vague misconduct with the male student a month before the incident, but only came forward to it this week.
After the school principal received the report, he promptly contacted the local police office and the sheriff’s office, who dispatched police to the school to search Krohnfeldt's classroom. However, it was momentarily sealed off.
Around 1 pm, Krohnfeldt was pronounced dead at her home in Arvada.
Reporters claim the teacher took her life as officials arrived at her home to do an interview regarding the alleged affair. At least one law enforcement officer reported witnessing the presumed suicide.
A letter was sent home to students notifying them that Krohnfeldt had suddenly passed away. The note also stated, "Our hearts go out to her family at this painful time, and I know many will feel this loss deeply."
Grief counselors were offered to students to help cope.
Public Schools of Jefferson County have sent statements out informing residents that the investigation into Krohnfeldt's alleged misconduct was in its 'infancy' and reassured that the issue would continue to be looked into in coordination with law enforcement.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
