2 Orange Coast College students found dead in on-campus dorms

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Thursday, February 11, 2021
2 OCC students found dead in dorms on Costa Mesa campus
Two Orange Coast College students who were found dead in dorms at the Costa Mesa campus may have died of drug overdoses, authorities said.

COSTA MESA, Calif. (KABC) -- Two Orange Coast College students who were found dead Tuesday in dormitories at the Costa Mesa campus may have died of drug overdoses, authorities said.

Amonie Palmer, 18, was discovered unresponsive in a dorm.

Robert Stell, 33, was found in another unit later the same day.

"The Orange Coast College community is profoundly saddened by the tragic deaths of our students and express our heartfelt condolences to the families, and friends during this very difficult time," OCC said in a statement. "OCC continues to work with our local law enforcement partners as they respond to these heartbreaking events. On campus, our priority is providing counseling support to our students and employees as we grieve this devastating loss of life."

It was unclear if the deaths were related. The Costa Mesa Police Department is conducting an investigation.

Authorities are waiting on toxicology reports to determine the official cause of death.

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