GALVESTON, TX — A Texas A&M Galveston student was found dead during the search for a missing cadet with the Texas A&M Maritime Academy.
According to KTRK, officials discovered the body of an 18-year-old student inside Pacific Hall on campus before 10 P.M on Jan 28. as they were looking for a missing cadet.
Police said the 18-year-old had called for a welfare check earlier in the night. However, by the time officials arrived, he had already passed away.
The student has since been identified as Wesley Mallernee. He was part of the Class of 2023.
The Galveston County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed Mallernee's cause of death was a preexisting medical condition.
The missing Texas A&M Maritime Academy cadet has identified as Brandon Perlowski, Class of 2021. He was last seen Wednesday afternoon, Jan 27.
Galveston police led search efforts Thursday night with the support of Texas City Police, the U.S. Coast Guard and around 200 student cadets.
Galveston police say the two incidents are not connected.
Remains were found on Fridayduring the search for Perlowski, who is from Lorena.
Mike Fossum, CEO of Texas A&M Galveston, released the following statementFriday.
Dear Aggies,
It has been a terrible 24 hours as we have begun to accept the deaths of two of our students, Wesley Mallernee ’23 and Brandon Perlowski ’21. We have weathered many storms, Sea Aggies, but none so crushing as the loss of those taken too early.
Tragedy impacts each of us differently, yet we are united as Aggies, forever exhibiting the core values that define us. Never has there been a greater opportunity to demonstrate our loyalty and selfless service than now. Remain loyal to one another in kindness and patience and serve one another in your remembrance. Take the time you need to grieve and invest heavily in the care of yourselves and one another.
We are not equipped as human beings to suffer tragedy alone. As we deal with the shock and mourn our losses, I encourage you to cling tightly to one another no matter how your grief manifests.
The counseling office in suite 104 of the Seibel Center has extended hours through the weekend and has counselors available to any faculty, staff or students on Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 2 p.m. Additional counseling resources are available to faculty and staff through the Work/Life Solutions Program. The Galveston Campus Care Team is also available to provide support, intervention, and additional resources. These assets are available to you at no cost to help you navigate trying and weary times. Please reach out if needed; we’re here for you.
Events and activities are being organized across campus. We will keep you informed as details emerge. Monitor the Galveston Campus mobile app, social media and university email for up-to-date information.
Let this shared Aggie heritage bring you together in reflection, remembrance and support.
With all my love and respect,
Mike Fossum
