To the Temple community, 

It is with great sadness that we write to let you know we lost a member of our Temple University family over the weekend. University College student Daniel Contreras-Francisco and three members of his family were involved in a fatal car accident in Connecticut early Saturday morning. 

This is a tragedy in every sense of the word, and we collectively mourn the loss of Daniel and his family members, Joel Francisco Contreras-Paniagua, Lorena Contreras Francisco Reyes and Joel E. Contreras Francisco. The loss of their lives represents a heartbreaking end to a week that had been filled with such promise. Just last Friday, Daniel walked in the University College’s Commencement ceremony as he was just one class short of earning his bachelor of general studies degree. He was set to start his final class this week. 

Daniel was a leader on campus and was heavily involved in Temple’s fraternity and sorority community. He was initiated into Lambda Theta Phi Latin fraternity in spring 2019. Then, from spring 2021 through 2022, Daniel served as chapter president. In addition to his leadership in his chapter, he also served the Multicultural Greek Council as vice president of programming from spring 2022 through fall 2022 and as council president in spring 2023. 

Losses like these serve as unfortunate reminders of how fragile life can be. It will no doubt affect many of us and in a variety of ways. The Temple community extends our deepest sympathies to those who were closest to Daniel and his family. We especially offer our condolences to his extended family and friends. 

The university is committed to supporting one another during this difficult time. We encourage anyone who may experience difficulty to seek available support services. Tuttleman Counseling Services, located at 1700 N. Broad St., offers a range of resources. More information, including hours of operation, is available at 215-204-7276 or on the Tuttleman Counseling Services website. 

We also will honor the memory of Daniel and his family during a special vigil, which will be held Wednesday, May 17, at 8 p.m. at the Bell Tower. All members of the Temple community are invited to attend. 

Daniel will be missed by his Temple family. Just as Daniel took care of his fraternity and sorority brothers and sisters, we encourage all of you to take care of one another during this difficult time. 

Sincerely, 

JoAnne A. Epps 
Acting President  

Stephanie B. Ives 
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students 

Vicki Lewis McGarvey 
Vice Provost for University College