Student Falls from Keating Clock Tower

The bells in Keating Hall’s iconic clock tower ring hourly and can be heard throughout the university and its surrounding blocks. (Elizabeth Zanghi for The Fordham Ram)

By Erica Scalise

Sydney Monfries, FCRH ’19, was critically injured in a fall from the clock tower in Keating Hall at approximately 3 a.m. on Sunday, April 14, according to Public Safety.

The student apparently climbed into the clock tower with a group of friends.

The university will hold a mass for Monfries8 tonight at 7 p.m. in the University Church. All members of the Fordham community are invited to attend.

“I know you join me in keeping Sydney, and her family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers,” said Rev. Joseph M. McShane, S.J., president of the university, in an email addressing members of the Fordham family. “I also urge you to be kind to one another, and to yourselves, in the days that follow.”

Police said Monfries was in serious condition. They initially said she fell 140 feet, but later corrected that to 30-40 feet according to NBC.

According to Public Safety, Monfries was rushed to St. Barnabas Hospital, and her family has been notified.

Bob Howe, director of communications, said there are no further updates as of right now.

University officials are investigating how the students gained access to the tower.

The story is breaking and will be updated.