HOUSTON, TX – A Rice University student from Maryland was found dead on Monday in what officials are describing as an apparent murder-suicide.
Rice University Police Chief Clemente Rodriguez addressed that university officers conducted a welfare check around 4 p.m. Monday and found a junior from Maryland, Andrea Rodriguez Avila, deceased alongside a deceased man in her dorm room.
A concerned family member reached out to university police after discovering that Avila had not attended classes that day, prompting a response from the officers.
Avila had reportedly been fatally shot, and the unidentified man nearby had a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
"RUPD is investigating a potential homicide at Jones College. All students should stay in their rooms until further notice. Faculty and staff should shelter in place until further notice," the school wrote around 6 p.m. on their X page.
According to Rodriguez, investigators believe the man shot Avila before turning the gun on himself. Police also noted that the man does not appear to be affiliated with the university.
University police found no signs of forced entry and believe the suspected shooter gained access to the dorm through Avila.
The lockdown was lifted about 45 minutes after the report came to officials and the school announced all classes and activities were canceled Monday and Tuesday.
Rice University and Houston police are working together to investigate the deaths and further information will be provided.
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