Andrew Polakowski (18) was crushed to death by an elevator



Andrew Polakowski (18) Date: Oct 20, 2006

Cause of Death: Crushed by Elevator (Suffocation)

Location: Columbus, OH

URL: view their profile Oct 20, 2006Crushed by Elevator (Suffocation)Columbus, OH

New details have emerged in the elevator accident that killed an 18-year-old Ohio State University student late Friday night. Ohio State police said Andrew Polakowski was killed while trying to exit a moving elevator on the third floor of the Stradley Hall residence building, NBC 4's Ana Jackson reported. He was caught between the building and the elevator and became trapped.



"The elevator started to move toward the lobby with the door still open," said Ohio State assistant chief Rick Amweg. "(Polakowski) tried to get off the elevator and was trapped between the elevator and the building."



According to the Franklin County Coroner, Polakowski died as a result of suffocation.



Officials said students on both the elevator and the third floor watched as Polakowski became trapped, Jackson reported.



"Everyone is very upset and kind of keeping to themselves and being quiet," said Stradley resident Alyssa Mucci.



Polakowski, a freshman pre-business major from Erie, Penn., was described as popular and friendly.



"A lot of people knew him and he's a pretty nice kid," one resident said.



So far, investigators said there is no indication foul play, drugs or alcohol, Jackson reported. The Ohio Department of Commerce has joined Ohio State police in the investigation and said the elevators in Stradley Hall are inspected twice a year.



Officials said the elevator that Polakowski was riding has been shut down for the time being.

Related Article(s): Moving Elevator Killed Ohio State Student

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