A college student from California attending Bowdoin College was found dead in a parking lot near the Frank J. Woods Bridge in Topsham, Maine. The 20-year-old woman, identified as Qingyang Zhan by Bowdoin College President Safa Zaki, was discovered early Sunday morning. Police responded to a report of a deceased person, and the woman’s body was taken to the Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy. The incident is currently under investigation, but police do not believe there is a threat to the public.
Zhan, known as K to those who knew her, was born in Shanghai, China, and had been living in the U.S. since 2019. She attended school in California before starting at Bowdoin College in the fall of 2021. Described as a bright and engaging presence by faculty members, Zhan was deeply interested in theological and philosophical questions, according to her academic advisor Jean Yarbrough. Zaki expressed deep sadness over Zhan’s death, acknowledging the impact on her family, loved ones, friends, classmates, and the entire Bowdoin community.
After notifying the campus community of Zhan’s death, Zaki emphasized the need for students to take care of themselves and each other during this difficult time. The college is offering extended counseling hours for students to provide support following Zhan’s passing. Zaki expressed her own heartbreak and shock over the tragedy, highlighting the devastating loss felt by the entire community. Despite the sadness, Zaki urged everyone to come together to support one another and extend condolences to Zhan’s family.
The circumstances surrounding Zhan’s death are not yet known, adding to the complexity of processing the tragedy. However, Zaki emphasized the importance of taking advantage of opportunities to gather and support one another during this challenging time. Faculty members and students alike remember Zhan for her warmth, kindness, and academic curiosity. The loss of such a promising and beloved member of the community has deeply impacted the campus, reinforcing the need for connection and mutual support.
As the investigation continues, officials are waiting for the results of the autopsy to shed light on the circumstances of Zhan’s death. Despite the tragic nature of the incident, police have stated that there is no immediate threat to the public. The community at Bowdoin College has been left reeling from the loss of Zhan, reflecting on her positive impact and the void her absence leaves. Zhan’s memory will be honored as the campus comes together to mourn, remember, and support one another during this time of grief and disbelief.
