TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – An overnight fraternity event ended in tragedy when a freshman member died after falling into a private pond in rural Illinois.

Yiorgo Karnezis, 18, attended Indiana State University and was a member Sigma Chi fraternity. The school announced his death Sunday evening.

The cause of death was not immediately released, however the Clark County Sheriff’s Department says it appears to be water-related. They responded to a report early Sunday morning of a person who had fallen from a small boat into a pond in rural Dennison, the office reported on Facebook.

The victim was recovered from the pond and transported to Terre Haute Regional Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Indiana State has suspended all operations of the Sigma Chi fraternity. This action is consistent with university protocol and will remain in effect while university staff investigates in accord with the Student Code of Conduct, a press release stated.

Karnezis’ family called him selfless and full of light and asked for those who knew him to cherish his memory, according to a statement made to local station, News 10. 

“Yiorgo was full of love and laughter and could make an entire room happy with his contagious smile. During this difficult time, we ask that everyone cherish the good memories they have had with Yiorgo. Our family is very touched by the amount of love and support from both the Munster and the Indiana State community,” their statement said.

University officials were told of Karnezis’ death by the Clark County (Ill.) Sheriff’s Office, who responded to the call and conducted the on-scene investigation, the school said in a press release.

“The Indiana State University community is deeply saddened by the death of Yiorgo Karnezis. The death of a student affects the entire Sycamore family, and we as a community extend our deepest and sincerest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time,” said Willie L. Banks Jr., Ph.D., vice president for student affairs.

The Tribune Star contributed to this report.