Rice University student Andrea Rodriguez Avila was found shot to death in her dorm room in Houston, with her boyfriend, the suspect in the shooting, also found dead nearby from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The police were called to check on Avila after her family expressed concern about her lack of contact, which led to the discovery of the tragic scene. The note left by the suspect indicated that the couple was experiencing relationship issues. The suspect’s identity has not been released, but he may have been from Florida. There was no sign of forced entry into the dorm room, suggesting that the suspect gained access by accompanying Avila, who had the means to enter. Rice University has reassured the campus community that there is no immediate threat to safety and is offering counseling services to support students who may be affected by the tragedy. Jones College, where the incident took place, has a history of providing a residence for women on campus before becoming a coeducational institution. In light of this tragic event, resources such as the National Domestic Violence hotline and the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline are available for anyone facing similar situations. The university is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students and staff during this difficult time.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com