Houston, Texas – Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a junior at Rice University and a resident of Jones College, was tragically found deceased in her dorm room on Monday, August 26, 2024. The discovery was made during a wellness check conducted by the Rice University Police Department (RUPD) after Avila’s family reported not hearing from her and her failure to attend a class on the first day of the semester.
According to authorities, Avila is believed to be the victim of a homicide, with a second individual, who was not affiliated with Rice University, also found dead in the room. Investigators suspect that this individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The two were believed to have known each other, and there was no sign of forced entry into the room.
Rice University Police Chief Clemente Rodriguez shared that a note was left by the gunman, explaining his previous relationship with Avila and indicating that they had been experiencing a troubled relationship. The incident has been classified as an apparent murder-suicide.
Rice University President Reginald DesRoches addressed the campus community, reassuring students and parents that the university is safe and that there is no immediate threat to the campus. "I want all of our students, parents, and the entire Rice community to know that the Rice campus is safe, and tonight, we will wrap our arms around our students," DesRoches stated in a press conference.
The tragic loss of Andrea Rodriguez Avila has left the Rice University community in deep sorrow. The university is offering support to students affected by the incident, and the family of Andrea Rodriguez Avila is expected to release obituary and funeral arrangements soon.
This heartbreaking incident has prompted discussions about campus safety and the importance of mental health resources for students. The university, in coordination with local law enforcement, is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.