Oglethorpe University Student Erik Downes Found Dead Off Costa Rica

ATLANTA -- An Oglethorpe University student who disappeared off the coast of Costa Rica during a study abroad trip has been found dead, the school announced.

Junior Erik L. Downes, of Cape Coral, Fla., was with several students and faculty members on a short-term ecological study abroad trip, Oglethorpe spokeswoman Renee Vary said in a news release. Downes, a pre-medical student, was swimming with others swimming in the waters off Playa Dominical on the Pacific Coast on Tuesday when they were caught in the riptide, Vary said.

The other students were unharmed, but Downes never resurfaced, Vary said. After a three-day search involving the Coast Guard and many volunteers, Downes' body was recovered in the waters off Playa Pinuelas, Vary said.

”Erik was a shining star with unlimited potential and a kind heart, said Oglethorpe University President Lawrence M. Schall. ”This is a great loss to our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Downes was involved in various activities on campus. He lead the Student Senate as vice president of the Student Govement Association, was a resident assistant and was active in the school’s Center for Civic Engagement service projects, Vary said.

As students retu from winter break Sunday, the school will offer counseling services to cope with the incident, said Dean of Students Michelle Hall.