Autopsy report confirms student died from alcohol poisoning

Jason Wren, a 19-year-old freshman found dead in his fraternity house in March, had more than four times the legal limit of alcohol in his blood at the time of his death and died from alcohol poisoning, the finalized autopsy report, released today, said.

Wren, who died March 8 in Sigma Alpha Epislon, 1301 West Campus Road, had a blood alcohol concentration of .362 percent, according to the report. The legal limit in Kansas is .08 percent.

A preliminary report released in April suggested Wren’s death was because of excessive drinking, but was not conclusive. Blood and tissue samples were sent to St. Louis University for conclusive testing, leading to the finalized report.

Friends and fellow SAE members have said Wren drank margaritas purchased with a fake ID at a restaurant in Lawrence and then continued to drink beer, wine and whiskey in the SAE house the night of his death.

The report also included what possessions Wren had with him when he died, which included two receipts for alcohol from a local Mexican restaurant. Jay Wren, Jason’s father, would not confirm which restaurant. Jason did not have a fake ID in his possession at the time of his death, according to the autopsy report. Jay Wren has said Lawrence police have the ID, though the death investigation has not been treated as a criminal matter since March and no criminal charges relating to Wren’s death have been filed.

Jay Wren has hired an attorney and said he plans to pursue civil litigation, though he has not spoken publicly about against whom.

Wren’s blood tested negative for all other intoxicants screened, including commonly used drugs.

 

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Comments

I find it difficult to muster up sympathy for those who drink irresponsibly. There are some of us who are aware of when, where, and how much is appropriate. I hope that my fellow Jayhawks take note, and the next time you are out, know when to stop.

Why do people feel the need to show Jay Wren disrespect? He did lose his son and it definitely could have been prevented by a number of people. Please think before you post.

I have to admit, these comments make me a little ashamed of the student body. Regardless of either of the Wren's actions it's important to remember that a kid died, that at the very least should evoke a tone of respect and a modicum of deference and sympathy for his family. Sure, Mr. Wren's behavior may not have been the most constructive but regardless, it's important to remember that he just lost his son and is probably not dealing with it any differently that a majority of us would in his situation. As for those of us who didn't know Jason (myself included) perhaps rather than using this as an opportunity to grandstand our own supposed knowledge of when to quit (which I would imagine Jason felt he had as well), we should take some time for solemn and somber reflection regarding our own drinking habits and whether they truly are as healthy as we believe.

tic tac kid, you nailed it! Excellent post!

IN BEFORE FATHER WREN POSTS!

I don't disrespect Mr. Wren. I just think he is going about this all the wrong ways. If he wants to get people's attention, arguing with them is not the way to do it.

Its sad because obviously this kid had a drinking problem. But I think its so bad that Mr. Wren is taking legal action. In my opinion, it can only bring more pain to the family.

@ohreally

Actually, you don't have to have a drinking problem to do something like this. One night of irresponsibility does not equal a lifetime of having 'a drinking problem.' It is a cultural and societal problem, one in which some students get too lost within.

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