Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) issued the following statement in response to the new information provided by the AP, who reviewed emails showing chaos before Braeden Bradforth’s death:

“The documents obtained by Roxana Hegeman underscore again the need for a completely independent and transparent investigation of the death of Braeden Bradforth.  Reading about how Braeden suffered in his last and, likely, his most excruciating hour of life demands a comprehensive examination that will go wherever the facts lead. 

“I urge the college to be open and forthcoming without awaiting additional 'open records' requests.  This may just be the tip of the iceberg.  Dr. Walters needs to have full access to all witnesses as well as all electronic and video data maintained on the campus or saved off site.  The absolute truth may prove difficult for some, but it is the only means to provide credible answers for Braeden’s family and hopefully new protections for athletes in the future.”