Background Information About OSH Employee Who Passed Away Wednesday

"OSP investigation found no evidence indicating any criminal activity that could have caused Mr. Barron's death." - Oregon State police

(SALEM) - A 36-year old employee at Oregon State Hospital who worked in security, was found dead on the hospital grounds Thursday.

In response to information requests for information about the Oregon State Hospital (OSH) employee who passed away Thursday, OSH and the Oregon State Police have provided background information about the employee, Matthew Barron, of Salem. He is survived by a wife and three children.

Mr. Barron's title at the state hospital was Mental health security technician. He had been employed for nearly three years.

Investigators say he died Thursday, 11 April 2012, between 6:00 and 6:40 p.m., "on the grounds of OSH".

With regard to Mr. Barron's cause of death: officials say it appears to be of natural causes, stating: "There is an autopsy pending and the Oregon State Medical Examiner will make the final determination."

OSP statement regarding investigation outcome

"OSP investigation found no evidence indicating any criminal activity that could have caused Mr. Barron's death."

OSP involvement

"In the rare occurrence when there is a death at OSH, the Oregon State Police (OSP) is contacted to conduct an investigation. An OSP detective responded to the scene and the initial investigation indicated the death was not related to any criminal conduct."

Statement from Greg Roberts, Superintendent of Oregon State Hospital:

"We will miss Matthew greatly, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

There is no additional information at this time. Salem-News.com was advised that employees believe Matthew Barron died from a heart attack, however that is speculative and unconfirmed, pending the results of the autopsy.