Joe Ngo poses in a recent picture.
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Joseph Ba Ngo died at the gazebo near the Duck Pond on Friday night.
Ngo was a junior biology major and a member of the Corps of Cadets in the G Company. Ngo, 20, was also a member of the Army National Guard.
His body was found by Virginia Tech Police at about 11 p.m. on Friday without a pulse.
The Virginia Tech Rescue Squad performed CPR for 20 minutes before taking him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after midnight, according to J.T. Jones, the president of VT Rescue and a junior construction engineering and management major.
The Virginia Tech Police Department has no reason to suspect foul play, but a medical examiner will make the final call as to whether his death was a suicide, said Larry Hincker university spokesman.
Kiefer Mattox, a junior history major and close friend of Ngo’s, said he had not noticed anything wrong in the days leading up to Ngo’s death.
“I don’t think anyone suspected anything,” Mattox said. “I saw him Friday morning and he was just fine. But hindsight is always 20/20. Now it seems so obvious.”
Mattox, who is also in the Corps of Cadets, said Ngo disappeared Friday night and people were wondering where he was.
“Eventually, someone notified the Tech Police and then they found him,” Mattox said.
Ngo, Mattox, Joshua Kim and Bobby McDonald were four friends who called themselves “The Wolf Pack.”
“We were all together in the same company freshman year, and in the following years we were still good buds,” Mattox said. “That’s a name we came up with last semester, we were pretty much inseperable. I guess we got the name from “The
Hangover.”
He said he remembers Ngo as being funny and willing to do anything.
“He was just a funny kid, just really goofy. Serious when he needed to be but just goofy over all. He just did stupid funny things all the time, was always willing to help out anyone who needed it,” Mattox said.
Mattox said Ngo was an active member of the LGBTA and was very involved with his Vietnamese culture.
Ngo’s parents, Khoa Ba Ngo and My Hanh Nguyen, are both first generation Vietnamese, Mattox said.
Ngo was from Virginia Beach.
Check CollegiateTimes.com for continuing coverage.
A version of this article appeared in the Oct 25 issue of the Collegiate Times.
Leave a comment 67 Comments Write a letter to the editor
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Very tacky to even mention suicide before the medical examiner has issued a report.
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It's not tacky. Its the opinions of the personel on scene, because it was pretty obvious.
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They are just reporting the information they have. It's not like Ms. Sutherland can change the quotes she is given.
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"The Virginia Tech Police Department has no reason to suspect foul play, but a medical examiner will make the final call as to whether his death was a suicide, *********said university spokesman Larry Hincker******** "
Learn to read.
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It is bad journalism to release Suicide Stories on the front page. It encourages "copy cat" suicides. Running a story like this is very tabloid-ish.
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Actually, Leighton, it is not bad journalism. As a survivor of suicide (my husband committed suicide, and before him, his mother), suicide must be brought to the forefront and be recognized for the problem it is. If people do not realize how often it occurs and who and how many complete suicide, they will continue to think its numbers are insignificant. The pain of suicide is excrutiating for family and friends left behind, but it has long been considered shameful to talk about. If there is open discussion, those needing help may feel more likely to come forward seeking help.
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Of greater concern is how the school and the Corps kept an on-campus death quiet for over two days.
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This was not kept quiet for over two days. We were notified saturday around noon-ish about the death. we weren't given details because none were available. This is just the first press notification, probably because this is the first information released due to the ongoing investigation.
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How we were notified? I never saw anything
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Why is it anybodies business Rebecca?
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Rebecca, the entire corps was told of the death within the day. The police obviously determined that there was no threat to everyone else on campus and so to protect privacy did not release a statement or news of the death to anyone outside his family or his corps family. Frankly, everyone who NEEDED to know knew the day it happened. Butt out.
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I didn't say that it was mine, or anyone else's business. I was simply asking how that person was notified as he didn't represent himself as a cadet. Cool your jets, kids.
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Actually, you used the words "we" and "I", not he.
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Of course she used the words "we" and "I". She thought the person she was responding to was a civilian student rather than a cadet. Hence, we and I, obviously.
Now let it go, dude.
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Why don't you shut the hell up. The corps didn't cover anything up. His family needed to be notified and his family and friends needed time to grieve. The whole world didn't need to know about it. Be respectful to someone who served his country (something you can probably say you have never done). He was a friend and a patriot. He deserves our respect not heresy and gossip.
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Yeah we should be informed of every death and personal problem that occurs on campus because we need to know so badly. This is especially true if it only affects a small group of people...
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What do you want, a twitter post within hours giving all the information of his death, before even his family is notified? Chill out.
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Of greater concern is how the school and the Corps kept an on-campus death quiet for over two days.
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The Corps was notified soon after his family was notified. No one was told to hide such information. I am so sorry that after hearing the news that our close friend tragically died suddenly, we did not spread the news all about campus. Give PFC Joe Ngo the respect and dignity he deserves. He was a great guy, a good friend, and a good soldier. We in Golf Company saw Joe every day, and we loved him. We initiated into our company together and I spent my sophomore year as a fire team leader and our junior as his superior. He cared deeply about all the people under his command he always met the stresses of the Corps with a smile. It’s your speculative comments and quick judgments that we are trying to avoid. You haven't asked anyone close to the situation, because if you had you would have known how carefully and judiciously the University and the Corps handled this tragic. If you want to arm chair protest about this and that about the university I suggest you Do not do so in the face of the recently deceased. I don't believe I saw you out there this morning at 0730 for the silent formation, the moment of silence, the words about his passing, and our tears we shed over these last few days. There are some very upset individuals in the Corps right now and comments like that only push them into deeper grief. Non Concedo Joe Ngo
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question: how would they be there for the moment of silence when they didn't know? i think everyone understands the severity of the situation but it would be nice to know when someone is found dead on campus... just saying
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The entire Corps was notified Saturday morning by all company commanders. Not only was everyone told all the information was available, we had Cooks Counseling available almost immediately. All of these comments are beyond disrespectful. I have lost a lot of respect for the Collegiate Times and the civilian population on campus.
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If you're going to use this as an opportunity to dump on the entire civilian population, then you're just as bad as the other civilians leaving disrespectful comments on here.
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What if it was alcohol poisoning? In that case it wouldn't be a suicide.
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Please. Stop speculating and wait for an official report.
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Please. Stop speculating and wait for an official report.
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My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Joe Ngo. This is such a tragic and devastating loss of a young life.
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There was no alcohol involved. The cause of death was obvious, and unless you actually know someone on the police force or are on the rescue squad that responded you probably will not know the exact details.
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What an untimely tragedy. I am so sorry for the loss of such a promising young life. My prayer go out to his fellow members of the Corps of Cadets and to his family.
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It was an OD, not accidental, and not alcohol. It was a tragedy and my heart goes out to his friends and family.
And this isn't speculation. I was on scene.
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Writing that you were "...on scene." leads one to believe that you were acting in the capacity of EMS or law enforcement, and I can't believe for one minute that divulging this information is appropriate - or legal for that matter. None of the entities reporting this death have mentioned that his death was from an overdose, and the fact that a member from one of the responding agencies would cite this unconfirmed information as being true because he or she was "one scene" citing their is appalling.
Quite possibly one of the reasons Virginia Tech Rescue had such a poor reputation prior to April 16th, was due to the immaturity and lack of responsibility many previous members displayed. The comment section of this student run newspaper is not the place to release medical information (regardless of how vague or sparse) of a death that will require a medical examiner's investigation. Congratulations: your deliberate non-compliance with basic patient privacy principles shows one thing, and one thing only - that you did not belong "...on scene."
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Just saying, you have no idea that the person on scene was a member of VTRS. Then to follow up and say that they had a VTRS had a bad rep prior to Aug 16th is completely unrelated and probably untrue. Having friends on the squad myself, I would trust my life in their hands any day and I've seen the training they do and it's quite extensive. That being said, these guys could spit out more facts about HIPPA, in the time it would take you to figure out how to spell it. If you have a problem with them, then mainstreet is a short walk from campus and Blacksburg rescue will be more than happy to pick you up. That is all. SWAAAA RIP J. Ngo
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I think you mean April 16th. But I agree
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FYI , police and rescue personell weren't the only people on the scene. Just because someone says they were there does not make it a fact. However, the fact that you chose to believe that and jump on the rescue squads involved with blame makes you somewhat of a moron. Your family must be very proud.
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I agree that there is no way to know what agency he or she is affiliated with, or if he or she was simply walking by. I believe that the commenter is on VT Rescue for the following reasons: the incident took place on campus (where VT Rescue responds), the individual use terminology such as OD and on scene (something that the general public would not use), and the fact that relinquishing that type of information is against HIPAA (information on a patient was released without the consent of the patient or power-of-attorney) - something that a younger or immature individual would do, and probably not a police officer.
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I am an EMS provider from the New River Valley (not VTRS and not on scene), and I have always been impressed with the level of professionalism maintained by the Virginia Tech Rescue Squad. I do not believe for a minute that the person who made this comment was one of the EMS providers on scene. I think that our Anonymous friend is making inappropriate assumptions and speculating due to their own biased opinion. It saddens me that you used this forum to make those comments.
As one of the first responders who provided mutual aid on April 16th, I cannot disagree with you more about the comment referring to poor reputation following that day. VTRS handled the stresses of that day with professionalism and grace, and was commended not only by the University, but also by many within that national EMS community.
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This comment is despicable. I am glad your heart goes out to his family and friends, I just wish you had the ability to to keep your mouth shut and truly demonstrate your concern, sympathy and I would hope professionalism. The Corps of Cadets is handling this as they should. You should take a lesson from them. My son was notified almost immediately and spent the next two days grieving over his friend and trying to keep people from speculating over details that in the end are irrelavant. A fine young man has passed. The loss of life is tragic no matter want the circumstance and there is a family out there in agony over a son they will not see again. Grow up and if you are a first responder, may God have mercy on you for this betrayal. Cadet Ngo's family and friends are in our prayers and may Cadet Ngo rest in eternal peace.
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I couldn't have said it better myself. Cadet Ngo's family and friends are also in my prayers.
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Shame on you! To VT COLLEDGE STUDENTS those who wrote unsympathetic comments, and speculating on ones tragic and devastating loss: You all are educated and being educated, but have yet to learn the word RESPECT. Let my cousin rest in peace! May your legacy live forever.
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People of the general student population and community in Blacksburg should take the time and make the effort this week to approach Corps members and express your sympathy.
You cannot imagine the commitment these brave and dedicated students are making as members of the Corps. Most of them won't get to see their families until Thanksgiving break and have to bear the grief of losing a comrade, friend and mentor on top of the stresses of their studies and responsibilities in the Corps.
It would be a welcome gesture if you would reach out to these fine Americans with the simple sentiment, "I'm sorry for your loss."
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This isn't just a lose for the Corps. It's a lose for the whole VT community, Blacksburg Residents, VT staff and students etc...You should reach out to all and everyone.
RIP Joseph Ba Ngo
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Hey Joe,
We didn't know each other well, but we worked together in the Corps for a bit. Gone but not forgotten.
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My condolences to the family of this cadet, to his friends and to Golf Company.
My question is...is it not typically the policy of most noteworthy news organizations to not report on suicides or suspected suicides? This is done out of respect for the family and friends of the deceased. You report that a student has passed away and leave it at that. There should be no further reporting needed.
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You expect too much from the CT
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Indeed. Hincker is a hack, and the CT lacks class.
What kind of jerk-wad newszine opens up comments on a story like this? This community does not need to read every opining punk's comment.
RIP Cadet Ngo.
CT: YOU SUCK !!!
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Please see my reply to Leighton above. I have worked for 24 years to have people understand no one should be ashamed that Cadet Ngo died by suicide. It meant he was in an enormous amount of emotional pain, but being a suicide does not relegate his death to some lesser degree than anyone dying of other means. And above all, he deserves the respect of everyone on this campus and not to be treated like a tabloid story. The person who revealed the OD should be absolutely ashamed of themselves for showing such disrespect.
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Maybe one should wonder why this poor guy is gone? I have heard disturbing acts that go on within the Corp. Maybe that's the reason this happened. Maybe someone needs to look into how the Corp operates within VA tech, and not assume that the people running it, are all good people!!! An investigation into the Corps ways, should be looked into! Just saying!!!!
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When a tragedy like this happens, we must learn from it so that it does not happen to someone else. Keeping the story hidden prevents that. Depression is not uncommon on college campuses. People need to feel free to discuss a tragedy like this openly. Suicide is not something to be ashamed of. It is a fatal symptom of a disease that can happen to anybody. People try to cover it up out of fear or denial but not talking about it only makes it worse.
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Are you kidding me? Did somebody in the Corps steal your girlfriend and you think this is the time to get even? What kind of classless, hyena would write something like this at such a time? Maybe you should walk down to the Corps of Cadets and express this opinion to one of Cadet Ngo's friends face to face. This will never happen as you have no backbone and you are obviously another one of the anonymous massess who likes to speculate and thrive on the pain of others. Go on down to Brodie and spew this kind of hate to a Cadet, they will be glad to listen...Just sayin' God Bless the young men and women in the Corps!
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I will meet you anytime and anyplace as you are the coward who hides behind "Anonymous." Do your research and find out who I am and if you want a lesson in honor, loyalty and integrity, I am your man. The Captain and Maj. General are my references. VTCC does have its share of problems and you need to mature, recognize that fact and become part of the solution as I will.
As for the Cadet Ngo and his family, this is a terrible loss for him and them. You need to honor him by keeping your words short and sweet. You need to be loyal to his memory by acting as an adult. You need to exemplify your integrity and prove you are worthy to call yourself a Cadet and a future officer. Speaking from life experience...I remain.
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Well the way I see this my battle buddy from basic at ft Jackson is diseased and all you guys want to do is argue why not just have a moment of silence and let his soul rest in piece?
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J.Ngo was one of my daughters best friends in Basics.A nice guy that I did get to meet at Graduation. I cannot believe all the bickering going on! The world has lost a fine young man, can't you just dwell on that for a moment and keep him in your prayers. He's in mine.
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diseased? or deceased?
piece? or peace?
I am sorry for your loss, but my lord please learn english.
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Anonymous, you are a piece of work. Let the University do their due dilligence. Let the family grieve the loss of their son. Let the Corp mourn the loss of their brother. Don't assume that something you know nothing about is bad. What the Corp stands for is something that few folks have today in the world today. Many students choose not to take the Corp of Cadet route; it is not for everyone. There is pressure, hardwork and discipline outside of everything you are responsible for academically. Think of the Corp as a culture you may not know much about, but (you) may have the experience of life to appreciate those cultures that are different than yours. Give those who have chosen this honorable life that dignity.
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The corps is closely monitored by both the state and university, so the investigation you wish to see occurs constantly. This is a hard time for everyone and not the time to attempt to place blame.
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This guy was a junior. Juniors don't get hazed, they do the hazing.
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There are many upstanding upperclassmen in the Corps, PFC Ngo included, who absolutely despised hazing. His squad and anyone who knew him would vouch for that. That said, this kid was one of my closest friends. I cannot believe the hatred being spewed on this page. The world has lost an amazing person and the only things the people here can seem to come up with are lies and speculation and conspiracy theories. I came to this page hoping to find support and remembrance and answers. Instead I am left disgusted by the lack of respect from the Hokie Nation for one of their own. Joe Ngo truly embodied every aspect of what it means to be a Hokie and took the phrase "Ut Prosim" to heart. He meant a great deal to those who knew him and I refuse to let his memory be muddied by the opinions of those who did not. Let his family and his friends find peace.
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You obviously weren't in the corps and have no intention of ever making a contribution to society or your country. Joe Ngo died in service to his country. The corps graduates LEADERS of EXEMPLARY character. To do that it must be hard. We do not have atrocities and we take every precaution to ensure that only the appropriate amount of rigor essential to ensure proper military training. We have strict guidelines and numerous amount of checks and balances in order to prevent hazing.
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"We do not have atrocities and we take every precaution to ensure that only the appropriate amount of rigor essential to ensure proper military training. We have strict guidelines and numerous amount of checks and balances in order to prevent hazing."
Try telling that to my son, James, if you have the guts.
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I was his Drill Sergeant in BCT at FT. Jackson. He was a great kid and Soldier. My heart felt sympathies goes to his family and friends. Rest easy Soldier.
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Sad. This incident, as well as this comment board. Ironic that the anonymity enjoyed by the ignorant commenters who just want the self-satisfaction of being "right" by trashing reputations, offering silly conspiracies, or attacking another's principles, creates the sense of isolation among us that drive many to leave us. Joe Ngo is dead. He'll never grace us with his gift of presence again. Ask yourself before you comment; "Does it really feel that good to hurl invective when you know that people who have suffered this great loss will read it?"
You will suffer loss in your life, some earlier, more sudden, and more tragic than others. It's sad that only then you might learn to empathize. By then it may be too late.
To Joe's friends and family; I didn't know him, but I wish I had. I'm sorry for your loss.
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Ngo was a great guy lets leave it at that. We're all gunna miss him. I spent 3 days at Ft. Pickett with him and Basic and this guy was an outstanding soldier and would of made a great officer. This comment section is supposed to be used to leave comforting comments for his family. It's not twitter soo keep your trash off here. I won't forget you an I wont forget the good times in 3rd bay I know you're still influencing everyone just from a better place now. Praying for your family. RIP Kung Fu Panda
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Rest in peace Joe, it's sad to see you go.
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Corps of Cadets, family, and friends. I'm sorry for your loss. You have the support of another Hokie.
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My deepest sympathies go out to the friends and family of J Ngo. Rest in Peace
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I am not a cadet, however Ngo's passing truly does break my heart. I am appalled at some of the comments written on this article, and hope that they do not reach the eyes and ears of Ngo's family and friends. I would like to speak for the majority of the hokie community, not the few that chose to argue and whine via this article, that our thoughts and prayers go out to Ngo's family and friends.
Rest in peace Ngo.
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where is the love and 'family' at VT??? you guys should know better than this! come together in peace and love for you have lost one of your own no matter the situation. you are all 'grownups' and will be coming into this world with enough horrors of its own...don't be a contributor...work together.
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I am not in the Corps, but I am a student at Tech. My deepest condolences to those who are suffering the loss of a family member, friend, or fellow cadet in this young man, Ngo's, death. Let's not make this a Corps vs. civilian fight, a Collegiate times vs. the tech community fight. Let's just not fight. Instead let's please come together to honor this man and hope that light comes again to those mourning.
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