A tragic accident last night claimed the life of a McMaster student. Heather Watson was struck on Coote's Drive by a city of Hamilton plow/salt truck just before 6:30 Monday evening. The 19 year-old woman was a second-year student in the Arts & Science Program. Police are continuing their investigation.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Heather's family and friends,” said McMaster president, Peter George. “To lose someone so young and so full of potential is devastating to our entire McMaster community.”

Phil Wood is the dean of students at McMaster. “The death of a student is always difficult for people across the University. We're reminding students that counseling services are available through the Centre for Student Development, and that faculty and staff can access similar services through the Employee Assistance Program.”