Thomas Donnelly, 21, was a fourth-year undergrad studying computer science at the University of Cincinnati

NEED TO KNOW

• Thomas Donnelly went missing while attempting to cross a creek during a hiking trip in West Virginia
• Authorities said he lost his footing and was swept downstream
• His body was found on Oct. 12 following a search

A missing University of Cincinnati student was found dead earlier this week after he attempted to cross a creek during a hiking trip in West Virginia.

Troopers located the body of 21-year-old Thomas Donnelly, of Cincinnati, on Monday, Oct. 12, West Virginia State Police said in a news release shared with PEOPLE.

Police were first notified that a hiker was missing in the area of the Red Creek Trail and Fisher Springs Trail in Tucker County late in the morning of Sunday, Oct. 11.

Officials said Donnelly was a member of an eight-person group from the UC Mountaineering Club that had been hiking in the area for several days at that point.

The group was trying to cross South Red Creek when they “encountered elevated water levels and swift currents caused by heavy rainfall,” police said. During the attempt, Donnelly was unable to maintain his footing and was swept downstream by the rapid waters.

First responders conducted a search for Donnelly over the weekend that was later suspended due to approaching inclement weather and darkness.

Search operations resumed on Monday and Donnelly’s body was found around 2 p.m. local time that day.

Donnelly was a fourth-year undergraduate student in computer science, according to a school spokesperson.

“The university is working to identify any students who may be impacted by his passing to offer support and to connect them to resources as they process this loss,” the spokesperson added.

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“This loss is incredibly heartbreaking and has had a significant impact for many members in the Bearcat community,” UC Dean of Students Shaka Sydnor said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Thomas’ family, friends, and classmates that have been impacted by this tragic news. Please keep Thomas’s family in your thoughts during this difficult time.”

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