Anthony Joseph Blas Cause of Death: Investigation Continues After Cal State Fullerton Freshman’s Death
Indiadailyupdate.com – The official Anthony Joseph Blas cause of death has not been determined, according to the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office. Blas, an 18-year-old Cal State Fullerton freshman from Whittier, died after attending an off-campus gathering connected to an unaffiliated fraternity near the university.
He was taken to St. Jude Medical Center shortly after midnight on Saturday, September 12. Police said he was dropped off at the emergency department while unresponsive. Medical staff attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead.
“Despite life-saving measures, the male was pronounced deceased by medical staff. Fullerton police detectives responded to the location and began their death investigation,” Fullerton police Sgt. Ryan O’Neil said.
Alcohol May Have Been a Contributing Factor
Authorities have said preliminary findings suggest alcohol consumption may have contributed to Blas’ death. However, the final Anthony Joseph Blas cause of death and manner of death remain pending the coroner’s examination.
“Based on preliminary investigation, alcohol consumption is a contributing factor to the male’s death,” O’Neil said.
Police have not announced a final timeline of the events before Blas arrived at the hospital. Investigators are continuing to review evidence and speak with people who may have information about the gathering.
Off-Campus Fraternity Gathering Under Review
Detectives identified the area near Associated Road and Milton Avenue as part of the investigation. Police said Blas attended a function hosted by an unaffiliated fraternity, not a university-sponsored event.
Investigators also examined the 2100 block of Teri Place, near the Cal State Fullerton campus. The area is known by some residents as “frat row,” where several fraternity houses operate off campus and outside university affiliation.
At this stage, police said there is no evidence of foul play and hazing is not believed to be a factor. The investigation remains active, and authorities could revise those findings if new evidence is discovered.
“At this time, hazing is not considered to be a factor, and there is no evidence to suggest foul play. This investigation remains active and ongoing,” the Fullerton Police Department said.
Family Questions Events Before Hospital Arrival
Blas’ father said his son had been pledging an off-campus fraternity and had recently been accepted. According to his family, Blas was invited to the fraternity house for a celebration that evening.
The family has raised questions about what happened before Blas was taken to the hospital, including why emergency services may not have been contacted sooner. Those circumstances remain part of the police investigation.
The case has also drawn attention to the difference between university-recognized organizations and independent groups operating near campus. While students may attend off-campus events, those locations and organizations may fall outside a university’s direct oversight.
Cal State Fullerton Offers Support
Cal State Fullerton confirmed that a student died at an off-campus residence over the weekend. The university said it is providing support to students and others affected by the loss, including counseling through Counseling and Psychological Services.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family and the campus community during this incredibly difficult time,” the university said.
As the Anthony Joseph Blas cause of death investigation continues, officials have urged people not to draw conclusions before the coroner releases final findings.
FAQ: Anthony Joseph Blas Case
Has the official cause of death been released?
No. The Orange County Sheriff-Coroner’s Office has not released an official cause or manner of death. Police have said alcohol may have been a contributing factor based on preliminary findings.
Was the event connected to Cal State Fullerton?
Police said the gathering was hosted by an unaffiliated fraternity near campus and was not described as a university-sponsored event.
Are police investigating hazing or foul play?
Police said hazing is not currently believed to be a factor and that there is no evidence of foul play. The investigation remains ongoing.
How can people share information with investigators?
Anyone with information can contact Fullerton Police Detective Carrillo at (714) 738-5361 or Eric.Carrillo@fullertonpd.org. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS, or 1-855-847-6227.
