Rice University student found dead in dorm
FOX 26 Reporter Sherman Desselle has the latest on the investigation.
HOUSTON – An investigation is now underway after a Rice University female student was found dead inside her dorm by authorities.
Authorities responded to a welfare check around 4 p.m. Monday.
Authorities with Rice University provide an update following a deadly incident on campus on the first day of the 2024 fall semester.
School officials said Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a junior at Jones College, and who is said to be from Maryland, was found dead in her room on campus. A man, who was not a student, was also found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Investigators on the scene determined that Andrea was the victim of a homicide, school officials said in a message to the Rice community.
Officials stated the welfare check was made after a family member had not heard from Avila and wanted authorities to go check on her.
School officials said they checked for her classes to see if she attend, and it was determined that she had not gone to class, or missed a class today.
Authorities later made entry and that’s where she was found.
Rice University Police said based on the evidence, the two were in a dating relationship.
Officials said the shooter, who is possibly from Florida, was not a registered visitor and most likely gained access to the dorm from coming in with Avila.
A note that officials said was written by the shooter was also found. Officials said the overall summary of the note was that they were having a troubled dating relationship.
Authorities added anyone that is in a troubled relationship can go to the SAFE office located on campus.
The identity of the shooter has not yet been released.
FOX 26 has learned that school officials have confirmed that classes for Tuesday, August 27 have been canceled.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
