Two Dead in Houston’s Rice University Dorm in Alleged Murder-Suicide

Houston: A student was shot dead at Houston's Rice University on Tuesday in which authorities are investigating as a murder-suicide.  

Avila was discovered deceased in her room after university police conducted a welfare check, after concerns from her family about being unable to contact her.

The alleged shooter, who was not a student at Rice, was found dead in the same room which seems to police like a suicide in prima facie.

Police hasn't yet released the identity of the shooter.

The victim, identified as 21-year-old Andrea Rodriguez Avila, was a junior majoring in political science and pre-law. She had recently transferred from the Community College of Baltimore County in the spring of 2024.

Avila was active on campus, serving as deputy parliamentarian for the Rice Student Association, a peer academic advisor at Jones College, and a member of the Honor Council.

According to Rice University Police Chief Clemente Rodriguez, Avila and the man were in a dating relationship. A note found at the scene suggested that their relationship was troubled.

University officials confirmed that Avila's family arrived in Houston on Tuesday morning, the day after the incident. "Avila's family is receiving support from the university’s leadership team during this profoundly challenging time," a university spokesperson said. "They have requested privacy as they mourn their loss and are deeply appreciative of the outpouring of thoughts and prayers from the community."