On Monday, a somber atmosphere enveloped Rice University in Houston as news of a tragic incident unfolded. A junior student, Andrea Rodriguez Avila, was found dead in her dorm room in what authorities suspect to be a murder-suicide. The campus was placed on lockdown for nearly two hours as the community grappled with the shocking news.
University police discovered Avila's body after a concerned family member requested a wellness check due to her absence from class. Tragically, the suspected shooter, an unidentified male not affiliated with the university, was also found deceased in the room from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators believe the man shot Avila before turning the gun on himself, as indicated by a note found at the scene detailing their troubled romantic relationship.
Rice University President Reginald DesRoches addressed the campus, expressing the sorrow felt by the university community. He reassured students and parents that the campus was secure and there was no immediate threat. The university rallied around its students during this difficult time.
The incident took place in Jones College, one of the residential colleges at Rice University. The campus was placed on lockdown as authorities conducted their investigation, with the Rice University Police Department leading the efforts with support from the Houston Police Department.
Avila's parents are in contact with the university and are expected to arrive in Houston to deal with the aftermath of the tragedy. The entire Rice community is mourning the loss of a promising young student and offering support to those affected by the heartbreaking event.
