Rice University student killed in murder-suicide, officials say

HOUSTON (KIAH) — A Rice University student was found dead on Monday in what officials call an apparent murder-suicide.

Investigators identified the student as Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a junior from Maryland.

According to campus police, she missed her class on Monday and a family member couldn't reach her, so they asked for a welfare check.

Avila and another man were found dead in her room.

Investigators say the man was dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and they believe the two had a dating relationship.

Tuesday’s classes at Rice have been canceled.

“I want all of our students, our parents and the entire Rice community to know that the Rice campus is safe and there is no immediate threat, and tonight we will wrap our arms around out students,” Rice president Reginald DesRoches said.