INDEPENDENCE - A Loras College sophomore from Independence was found dead in her dormitory room Sunday.

Authorities are investigating the death of Audrey Fitzgerald, 19, who was found in her room around 7 p.m. Fitzgerald's body was sent to the State Medical Examiner's Office in Ankeny for an autopsy, said Terry Tobin, assistant Dubuque Police Chief.

Tobin said until the medical examiner can pointpoint a cause of death, the department is conducting their standard death investigation.

"We're not ruling anything in or out at this point," he said.

According to a press release from Loras College, Dubuque police were called to Fitzgerald's room in Binz Hall on an emergency. Loras officials said there was no indication that there was any threat to the Loras community.

Fitzgerald was active in sports. She was a member of the Loras volleyball team. She was also a member of the golf and track teams at Independence.

Additional staff has been made available for students, faculty and staff needing counseling and support. A memorial service was held Monday afternoon for Fitzgerald. More information will be available on the Loras College Web site www.loras.edu.

Family members were unavailable to comment.