Message for staff and students
It is with deep sadness that I must share the devastating news that four of our students – Makyle Bayley, TJ Hibbert, Eva Darold-Tchikaya, and Daljang ‘DJ’ Wol – tragically lost their lives this weekend.
These were young lives filled with hope, promise, talent, and dreams for the future. They all played an active role in our community through clubs and societies and were well-known around the University. TJ and DJ were outstanding members of our Essex Rebels men’s basketball 1st team, Makyle was a talented basketball player who was a member of our BUCS basketball team and Eva undertook several roles in our Essex Blades Dance Club and was active in many other clubs and societies.
Their loss will be felt by their families and closest friends and by all our university community. In classrooms, in halls, in shared moments of laughter and learning – they were part of us, and their absence will be felt profoundly.
At a time like this, words can never describe our sadness and emotion. But it is more important than ever that we come together, support one another, and honour their memory. In the coming days, we will share details of a time and place for our university community to gather in remembrance, to reflect on their lives, and to stand alongside those who loved them.
This news will affect each of us in different ways and if you need help or support, details of where you can find this are provided below.
In the coming days and weeks, we will find ways to honour Makyle, TJ, Eva, and DJ and ensure their light continues to shine in our university community.
For now, we hold their families, their friends, and each other in our hearts.
Maria Fasli
Vice Chancellor
Support and advice
For our students, please talk to someone if you need to – a friend, a tutor, a member of staff – or make use of our support services below. There is a space to be with others and speak to staff at Time Out in the Essex Sports Arena on the Colchester Campus.
During the week, our Student Services Hubs operate in-person, phone, email and live chat facilities. Our Students’ Union Advice service is also available for you, and there are a number of services you can access online to support your mental and emotional health. Student Wellbeing Support Line is open 24 hours a day; the number is 0800 028 3766. The Faith Centre is also available, as a space for quiet reflection Faith Centre services and facilities | University of Essex.
If you are approached by the media you do not need to talk to them. Tell them you do not want to speak and ask them to respect your privacy. You can also block them from any routes they have used to contact you. If they persist you can direct them to the University’s Communications Office at comms@essex.ac.uk
For our staff, I understand the deep effect this will have on our community, please speak to your line manager or our Occupational Health team if you require support at this time. There are also a range of support services available online, along with our wellbeing directory that contains resources to support mental wellbeing. Staff are also welcome to join students and colleagues at Time Out in the Essex Sports Arena on the Colchester Campus.
Further information and support