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Slain student remembered on Bloomington campus

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WISH) – The IU Bloomington campus is reeling after losing one of their own after Hannah Wilson, 22, was found dead Friday morning.

Over 1,000 people attended a vigil on Saturday to remember the IU student.PHOTOS | IU student, Hannah Wilson

“She meant a lot to a lot of people, so it’s tragic,” said IU student Seth Hollabaugh.

So many people gathered at the service that the line stretched through The Union building and out the door.

Wilson was a sister of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority.

She was preparing to graduate in two weeks with a degree in Psychology, but instead her family is preparing her funeral.

“We’re just all shocked and appalled really,” said IU student Bryce Hollabaugh. “It’s not right what happened to her, at all.”

Hannah disappeared on Thursday night. Her body was found Friday morning almost 20 miles from campus in rural Brown County. The coroner said she was hit at least three times in the head.

Daniel Messel, 49, was arrested and held on the preliminary charge of murder.

“It really stopped the entire campus,” said Bryce Hollabaugh

As the campus came together to remember Hannah’s life, many said their own lives are changed forever.

“I want to make something of it,” said IU student Colin Bruin. “I want to appreciate the things I have. That’s the feeling around campus right now. That’s why we gather.”

A fundraising page has been established in Hannah’s memory to help pay for her sister’s first year at IU. To donate, click here.

Indiana State Police are still investigating Hannah’s disappearance. Anyone with information is urged to call 812-332-4411.

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