Father’s Report of Missing Daughter Leads to Tragic Discovery of Trans Swimmer Lia Smith at Middlebury College

The Middlebury College community rallies to support Lia Smith’s parents and honor her memory.

October 28, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 28, 2026

Lia Smith’s parents are grappling with unimaginable grief following the confirmed death of their 21-year-old daughter, a Middlebury College student who had been reported missing earlier this month.

Smith, a double major in computer science and statistics from Woodside, California, was last seen on campus on Friday, Oct. 17.

Her father her missing on Sunday, Oct. 19, after unsuccessful attempts to contact her and speaking with her friends.

Vermont State Police (VSP) discovered Smith’s body near Middlebury, close to the college’s organic farm in Cornwall, on Thursday, Oct. 23.

The Vermont Chief Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed her identity on Friday, Oct. 24, determining that she died by suicide. Authorities noted there is no suspicion of foul play.

Middlebury College President Ian Baucom reached out personally to Lia Smith’s parents to express his profound sorrow.

“As president, and far more as a fellow parent, I ache for them,” Baucom said. “This is a profound loss that nobody should have to endure.”

He praised the efforts of the Student Affairs staff, who have been offering compassionate support to Smith’s family, friends, and the campus community.

Lia Smith’s parents have faced the painful reality of losing a remarkable young woman.

Smith excelled academically and athletically, competing on the Women’s Swimming and Diving team while participating in the Chess Club and Women in Computer Science.

She was also a passionate advocate for transgender rights and took part in campus discussions on transgender healthcare and inclusion.

The Middlebury community rallied in the search for Lia, with students, local volunteers, and multiple law enforcement agencies joining the effort.

“We’re a really small community,” senior Lucy Schembre said during the search.

In addition to law enforcement and campus resources, counseling services have been made available to support the college community as it mourns.

President Baucom and other officials have emphasized the importance of care, compassion, and community support during this difficult time.

U.S. Representative Becca Balint also extended condolences to Lia Smith’s parents, stating,

Lia Smith’s parents are now navigating the immense sorrow of losing a gifted, compassionate, and courageous daughter, while the Middlebury community continues to honor her memory and offer support.

Plans for memorials and gatherings will be announced in the coming days, ensuring that Lia’s life and impact are remembered by all who knew her.

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