4 dead in balcony collapse at St. Edward’s partner school in France

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated throughout. 

An apartment balcony collapsed Saturday night in Angers, France, killing four and injuring 14 others, local authorities said. 

The accident killed four French students and injured several others, according an email sent by Dean of Students Steven Pinkenburg. All St. Edward’s University students are safe and accounted for.

The French students attended a St. Edward’s partner school, Université Catholique de l’Ouest (UCO), in Angers, where some students are currently studying abroad.

“St. Edward’s students who are studying in France and French students here in Austin personally knew some of the victims,” Pinkenburg said.

The victims killed were three men and one woman between 18-25 years old, according to the New York Times.

“We do not have the names of the students who died, or were injured, and it is unclear which ones, or how many were students at UCO,” Pinkenburg said.

The Dean of Students Office had no additional information to add.

St. Edward’s President George E. Martin is currently traveling abroad in Europe. Martin is traveling to Angers as part of his trip, Director of Communications Mischelle Diaz said.

“We ask that you pray for and support the victims and their families, our St. Edward’s students studying abroad and current international students who may have known those involved,” Pinkenburg said in his email. 

During Mass on Sunday, there will be a prayer for all of the students affected by this tragedy. Any student affected is encouraged to contact the Global Engagement Office, the Health and Counseling Center or the Dean of Students Office for support.