Family of slain NDSU freshman sets up foundation in his memory
The family of Minnesota college student who died under mysterious circumstances has started a foundation that promotes youth sports and campus safety in his memory.
Forum News Service reports the Tom Bearson Foundation, which calls itself "a non-profit organization helping the community in memory of Tom Bearson," has a newly-created website that details its mission, board, upcoming activities, volunteer opportunities and offers a way to accept online donations.
Bearson was an 18-year-old freshman nursing student attending North Dakota State University in Fargo when he disappeared last September. The body of the Sartell, Minnesota, native was found in an industrial park in Moorhead. An autopsy determined he died of homicidal violence. No suspects have been identified in connection with his death.
Greg Bearson, the man's father, said the family decided to pursue a foundation to keep their son's memory alive.
"In Tom's short life, he touched so many people. We found that out since his passing," Bearson said. "People were drawn to him. Fantastic personality, sense of fun. Even though he was only 18, he left a legacy."
Valley News Live reports Bearson's family continues to get support from the community. His mother Deb told the station she received Mother’s Day cards in the week leading up to the holiday.
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The probe into the student's death continues. Investigators from the Fargo Police Dept. visited Sartell and conducted interviews in the past week week. Valley News Live reports police wouldn’t say who they were talking to.
On Bearson's memorial Facebook page, there is an announcement about the foundation-sponsored golf outing in Sartell in August, an effort that will raise funds for the non-profit.
