A Rice University student was shot and killed on the first day of classes in what appears to be a murder-suicide.
At Rice University, Andrea Rodriguez Avila was a junior political science major with a pre-law focus.
This narrative explores the topic of suicide. In case you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, kindly contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
An elite Houston school was shaken on the first day of classes when new details emerged about the Rice University student who was fatally shot in an apparent murder-suicide.
In spring 2024, Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a 21-year-old junior political science and pre-law major from Nottingham, Maryland, transferred from the Community College of Baltimore County to Rice University, according to Planet Chronicle Digital.
Avila, a skilled student, served as deputy parliamentarian of the Rice Student Association, a peer academic advisor at Jones College, and a member of the university's Honor Council.
On Tuesday morning, a day after the tragedy, Avila's family arrived in Houston, as confirmed by a university spokesperson.
The university's leadership team is supporting Avila's family during this difficult time. Although they have requested privacy, they are grateful for the community's thoughts and prayers, as shared in a statement by a university spokesperson to Planet Chronicle Digital.
On Monday, university police discovered Avila dead in her dorm room after her family expressed concern about not being able to contact her.
An individual who was not enrolled at the university was discovered deceased in the room with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to police.
The identity of the suspected shooter in Houston is yet to be released, but he is believed to be a 22-year-old from Florida. The release of his identity is pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.
Avila and the man were in a "romantic relationship," as confirmed by Rice University Police Chief Clemente Rodriguez.
The police stated that the pair's relationship was "troubled" based on a note found at the scene.
The start of the fall semester at Rice University was marred by a heartbreaking crime.
On a day that should have been filled with "promise and new beginnings," Rice University President Reginald DesRoches stated that the campus has been "shaken to its core."
DesRoches wrote on the school's website, "The pain we feel on campus tonight is immeasurable, and I know that words cannot fully capture the sorrow and grief that many of you may be experiencing. I urge you to lean on each other, to offer support and compassion, and to remember that we are all joined in our grief and care."
Classes were canceled at the school on Tuesday.
About 8,500 students attend Rice, a small school, with an annual tuition of approximately $60,000.
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