Eastern Michigan University has released details regarding a scheduled public visitation and memorial service for EMU Police Chief Greg O’Dell.
O’Dell, 54, died Friday after an apparent suicide.
Visitation: Wednesday, Dec. 28, 5-8 p.m., Nie Funeral Home, 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor.
Memorial Service: Thursday, Dec. 29, 11 a.m., Pease Auditorium, Eastern Michigan University, College Place and Cross Street, Ypsilanti.
Chief O’Dell’s family has requested that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to EMU Athletics or the Ann Arbor Police Department.
O’Dell, initially hired at EMU in Feb. 2008, spearheaded a number of public safety initiatives such as the Gotcha! program where yellow slips are given to students living in residence halls letting them know the doors to their rooms were unlocked. While police chief, O’Dell also increased foot patrols and a community policing approach that provided students direct access to officers. He also expanded electronic surveillance on campus by placing more than 400 cameras around campus.
EMU President Susan Martin said her thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
“His death is a tragic loss to Eastern Michigan University and the Washtenaw County area,” Martin said in a statement. “Chief O’Dell was a wonderful man who was deeply admired for his tremendous contributions to the Ann Arbor and Eastern Michigan communities. He was respected both as a caring person and as a highly accomplished police officer. He was a beloved and key member of the leadership team of Eastern and I will personally deeply miss him.”
Below is a list of resources for anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
(Free hot line operated 24 hours a day for those in suicidal crisis or emotional distress)
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Suicide Prevention Resource Center
www.sprc.org
Common Ground Crisis Line
800-231-1127
www.commongroundhelps.org
St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Emergency Room
734-712-3000
U of M Hospital Emergency Room
734-996-4747
