(FORT LAUDERDALE, FL) – A South Florida student has died after he jumped off the third-story building at his school, according to officials.

Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Stephen Gollan said they believe incident was an act of suicide. “The preliminary investigation shows that the student took his life in an act of suicide and had left messaging prior to doing that.”

It took place Thursday morning at Fort Lauderdale High School located at 1600 NE 4th Ave. Officials say the 17-year-old student was a male senior, and he reportedly jumped off the building as several students witnessed the incident.

He was rushed to Broward Health Medical Center where he later died due to his injuries.

The school was under a lockdown to avoid other students witnessing the scene, and because there was a crisis team on site.

“This morning, unfortunately, we are mourning the loss of one of our own students,” said Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Vickie L. Cartwright. “Our entire school community is feeling the pain.”

Cartwright is now calling for parents to speak with their children and to reach out to their school and counselors if they believe their child needs help.

Counselors were talking to students, and their families. There will also be grief counselors on campus through the week and next week.

If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).