Police believe New College deaths are drug related

The Sarasota Police Department is investigating two deaths that occurred this weekend on the New College of Florida campus, and detectives believe both unrelated incidents involve illegal drugs.

Dylan Besser, a 21-year-old University of Central Florida student who was visiting the school, was found dead early Saturday, while authorities found the body of 18-year-old New College student Julian Toomsen-Hall Sunday. 

Officers have received tips about a rise in the use of the prescription drug Fentanyl mixed with street drugs in the region, said SPD spokeswoman Genevieve Judge. But detectives are awaiting a toxicology report on both students.

"We are deeply distressed by the recent tragedies on campus, and our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and friends,” said New College News Services Manager David Gulliver in a release. 

Anyone with information related to these two cases should call Sgt. Tom Shanafelt at 954-7089 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 366-TIPS (8477) or go online to www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.

"This incident reminds us of how precious and fragile life is, and how important each of us is to our community," said New College President Donal O'Shea in a campus announcement Sunday. "Please take care, and let us also agree to look out for one another."