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Police have deemed the death of a university student whose body was discovered in a south Edmonton industrial area non-criminal.

The body of the 18-year-old — identified by friends as Tyler Emes — was discovered outdoors near 99 Street and 65 Avenue around 5 p.m. Sunday, near the Alberta Plywood plant. Homicide detectives took over the investigation, which police were initially treating as a suspicious death.

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On Monday, after an autopsy, police said the Edmonton Medical Examiner deemed the death to be non-criminal in nature.

Earlier in the day, MacEwan University released a statement saying the young man was a student there.

“We are extremely distressed by the news of the loss of one of our students,” said university president Deborah Saucier. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family and friends who are dealing with this tragic event. We have been in contact with the family and we will do everything we can to assist them during this difficult time.”

The university was making counselling staff available for friends of the student.

The Slave Lake Minor Hockey Association (SLMHA) also sent “heartfelt condolences to the Emes family” upon news of the death.

“Tyler Emes was a lifelong Thunder player and his life has come to an end much too soon. You were a role model for many players Tyler and your leadership was undoubtedly felt and appreciated by both your teammates and SLMHA. May you continue to enjoy the game you loved always,” said the group in a Facebook post.