As the UC Irvine campus prepares for finals, a great tragedy has struck among students, saddening many as they head into a stressful week full of trials and tribulations. UCI's favorite Anas Platyrhynchos, known as Harold, has been found dead as of Saturday, March 12th, specific time unknown.

Harold was allegedly found unconscious near the Infinity Fountain, notoriously known as his and his beloved wife's, Maude's, favorite relaxation spot. Harold and Maude are known among campus as a Dynamic Duo. Always seen together, often relaxing in the Infinity Fountain after a long, hard day of doing duck things like scavenging crumbs by the Student Center food court. There hardly goes a day in the life of a student where they do not come across a Snapchat story featuring Harold and Maude being their lovely, placid, duck selves.

Just like the notorious Swagman, a sighting of Harold and Maude is often seen as a good omen for many students as they head into exams.Many students see the sighting of Harold and Maude as a reminder that love still exists. One student notes, "I always enjoyed seeing them on campus because they were always so cute together and loyal to each other, it is sort of a reminder that love exists and is still out there once this is all over." When word of the tragedy spread across campus, students were outraged and anxiety levels reached and all-time high upon hearing that the lucky charm has been found mysteriously dead just before finals.

It is questionable whether the death of Harold takes on a more significant meaning. Many students believe this is a sign of their impending doom on their exams, wishing they would have studied more earlier rather than relying on the luck of a duck sighting. Others believe it is a sign that true love no longer exists, and has died along with Harold.

Many are questioning the strange circumstances of Harold's death. Speculations are currently seen all over Facebook, with some believing this was an attack from another animal. Perhaps coyotes or a rival bird? Others explore the possibility of a hit-and-run accident. Bicycles and skateboards are prohibited on a large part of campus, it is possible that a bicyclist or skateboarder was going at high speeds and struck Harold before he even saw it coming. With the high ticket prices for violating this rule, it is possible the perpetrator would want to make a run for it before facing the fines. A few students are exploring the possibility that Harold's loyal wife, Maude, is the culprit. It is unknown whether Harold and Maude had any ducklings together during their partnership. Maude's current motives are unknown. She has not been seen anywhere near Harold or the Infinity Fountain since the accident and many note this absence as suspicious.

In these trying times, it is important for students to move forward and remember Harold for the wonderful duck that he was. Bringing joy and confidence to many, only asking for a few simple bread crumbs in return. UC Irvine students everywhere will forever remember Harold as a spunky duck who was loyal to his wife, loved life, and loved the Infinity Fountain even more. He will live on in our hearts as the campus moves forward from the tragedy. As students head into their exams, it is important to keep Harold in mind and remember that Harold would want you to study hard and to always try your absolute best.

Rest In Peace, Harold.

May you find peace in the giant Infinity Fountain from up above.