Drugs, alcohol involved in death

Preliminary reports released by the Ann Arbor Police Department indicate both drugs and alcohol were factors in the Tuesday death of LSA sophomore Chris Giacherio, said his father, Don Giacherio, yesterday.

Formal autopsy results and a toxicology report are expected to be published today, AAPD officials said.

Giacherio was found mid-morning Tuesday in the bathroom of a friend's home at 909 Packard St. It is not known if he was alone at the time of his death.

Don Giacherio said his son did not have any substance abuse problems of which he was aware.

Giacherio's mother, Rose Giacherio, said the funeral will be held today at Muehlig Funeral Chapel in Ann Arbor and will include a viewing period from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. and a formal service at 8 p.m.

Giacherio

Counseling is available for students, staff and faculty through Counseling and Psychological Services, said Maureen Hartford, vice president for student affairs.

Already friends of Giacherio's have held at least two vigils in memory of the Ann Arbor resident, who graduated from Ann Arbor Pioneer High School in 1997. As a first-year student, Giacherio was a member of the Residential College.

Giacherio's death has not been linked to the Zeta Psi fraternity, of which he was a member. Zeta Psi is not a part of the Interfraternity Council, but IFC has issued a statement notifying the Greek community of Giacherio's death. Some Greek organizations have instructed their members not to speak to the press about the incident.

IFC adviser John Mountz said he is acting as a liaison between the University and Zeta Psi.

"We don't know if this is an incident involving an individual or something larger," Mountz said. "Right now it just looks as though it is an individual. We're going to wait and see what comes out of the police report."

Mourners who attended a vigil at midnight Wednesday in the East Quad residence hall courtyard said they remember Giacherio as "funny," "always smiling" and a "great guy."

Tawni Camitchel, a neighbor of Giacherio, said she was visiting with Giacherio a few weekends ago and finds it hard to believe he has died.

"We were rapping to the Beastie Boys and wrestling. I still have a bruise," Camitchel said.

09-18-98