Falling death at Oread hotel still under investigation; police await autopsy report
More than one week after the body of a 25-year-old Lawrence man was found on a second floor balcony at The Oread, 1200 Oread Ave., many questions remain about what caused the man to fall to his death.
An electrician discovered the body of Brandon Sims just before 7:15 a.m. on June 8. Sims, who worked for Front Row Audio in Lawrence, also did some construction work for the hotel, hauling audio cables to the hotel’s upper floors.
Lawrence police have said only that they believe Sims fell from an upper floor but have not indicated whether the incident was an accident or a suicide; nor have they ruled out foul-play.
Lawrence police spokesman Sgt. Bill Cory said the incident remains under investigation. Cory said an autopsy had been performed on Sims but police have not yet received the autopsy report.
Employees at the coroner’s office also said they were prohibited from releasing any details about Sims’ death.
Hotel officials will not comment on any details of the incident or offer any explanation as to how Sims could have fallen from an upper floor, but Nancy Longhurst, general manager for The Oread released this statement regarding the safety of the multilevel hotel.
“The Oread hotel is in full compliance with the Lawrence city and fire department codes and is frequently reviewed and is in complete compliance. The security, safety and concern of our contractors, employees and guests are top priority for our company.”
Sims’ relatives declined to comment.