PARKER THOMPSON, — The California Institute of Technology community is mourning the death of Parker Thompson, a second-year undergraduate student who died following an apparent suicide on campus on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The institute confirmed the loss in a message sent to students, faculty, and staff by Caltech President Thomas F. Rosenbaum.
Parker Thompson, who was originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, was a member of Ricketts House and was pursuing studies in Applied and Computational Mathematics, with a strong academic interest in English. He joined Caltech in the fall of 2024 through the First-Year Success Research Institute and quickly became an active and respected part of the campus community.
Outside of his academic work, Parker was involved in student leadership and served as secretary of the Associated Students of the California Institute of Technology (ASCIT). Peers and faculty remembered him as a thoughtful and caring individual, known for his gentle demeanor and quiet presence.
In his message to the Caltech community, President Rosenbaum described the loss as “tragic and sobering” and shared that Student Affairs is providing support to Parker’s friends, his undergraduate house community, and his family. In recognition of Parker’s life and contributions, the Caltech flag will be lowered to half-mast for three days beginning Thursday, February 5.
University officials emphasized the importance of connection and care during this difficult period. Students, faculty, and staff were encouraged to seek assistance through Student Wellness Services and the Staff and Faculty Consultation Center. Academic accommodations are also being made available to students who need flexibility as they process the loss.
Undergraduate students were informed that additional campus resources would be shared in a separate communication. Community members who are concerned about the well-being of a student were encouraged to submit a CARE Team Referral, which is open to individuals both within and outside the Caltech community.
Crisis support resources were shared following the incident. For Caltech undergraduate and graduate students, after-hours crisis support is available 24 hours a day by calling (626) 395-8331 and pressing “2.” Nationwide assistance is also available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, Trans Lifeline at (877) 565-8860, and The Trevor Project for LGBTQ+ youth.
“As a community, we remember Parker and honor his life and contributions across Caltech,” President Rosenbaum wrote. “On behalf of the Institute, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and classmates of our late student and colleague, Parker Thompson.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing thoughts of self-harm, support is available, and help can be reached at any time.
