November 6, 2008
Man who committed suicide in Red Square identified
The person who committed suicide in Red Square Oct. 30 has been identified as In Soo Chun, 61.
At about 1 p.m. Chun poured gasoline over his body and set it on fire. Students and other onlookers responded immediately, trying to smother the flames with their clothing, water and fire extinguishers from nearby buildings.
Chun had been a member of the UW custodial staff since December, 2005. He immigrated to America from Korea in 1977 and became a naturalized citizen in 1982. His employment with the University ended in August. On several occasions near the end of his time as an employee, Chun was advised that counseling assistance was available through CareLink, the UW’s employee assistance program, but as far as the University knows, he did not avail himself of such services.
