Rice University shooting: Student found dead in dorm, man found with self-inflicted gunshot wound

HOUSTON – An investigation is now underway after a Rice University student was found dead in her dorm room by authorities.

Authorities responded to a welfare check around 4 p.m. Monday.

Jones College officials said Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a junior at Jones College who is believed to be from Maryland, was found dead in her dorm room on campus. A man, who was not a student, was also found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Investigators at the scene determined Andrea was the victim of a homicide, school officials said in a message to the Rice community.

Authorities said the welfare check was conducted after a family member had not heard from Avila and wanted authorities to check on her.

School officials said they checked her classes to see if she was attending, and it was determined she either did not attend class or missed a class today.

Authorities then entered the premises and that’s where she was found.

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Rice University police said that based on the evidence, the two men were in a relationship.

Authorities said the shooter, who is believed to be from Florida, was not a registered visitor and most likely gained access to the dorm by coming with Avila.

A note that authorities said was written by the shooter was also found. Authorities said the general summary of the note was that the two men had a difficult romantic relationship.

Officials added that anyone in a difficult relationship can go to the SAFE office 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.