Fatal Shooting at Rice University Leaves One Student Dead in Suspected Murder-Suicide

Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a junior at Rice University in Houston, was found fatally shot in her dorm room on Monday afternoon. The suspect, who was dating Avila, was also found dead nearby from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Campus police had been alerted by the family of Avila, who had not been responding, after she missed a class. Upon entering her room, police found the bodies of Avila and the suspect, along with a note suggesting they were in a troubled relationship. The suspect’s identity was not released, but he may be from Florida.
Officials believe the suspect gained entry to the residence by accompanying Avila, who had access. Counseling services were made available to students following the incident, with reassurances from Rice University President Reginald DesRoches that the campus was safe.
Jones College, where the incident occurred, has a history dating back to 1957 as a place where women could reside on campus and is now a coeducational institution. Resources for individuals in crisis, such as the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, were provided for those in need of support.

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