Rice University cancels classes after student shot and killed in dorm room, school spokesman says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – Classes at Rice University were canceled Tuesday after a student was shot in her dorm room by a man who police believe took his own life.

Rice University President Reginald DesRoches identified the victim as Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a third-year student from Maryland. She and a man who was not a student were found in their room at Jones College around 4:30 p.m.

“This is a speech no president wants to give,” DesRoches told reporters. “We are in contact with Andrea's parents and will fly them in tomorrow morning.”

According to Rice University Police Chief Clemente Rodriguez, Avila missed her class on Monday and a family member was unable to reach her. The relative requested a welfare check from her dorm room.

Rodriguez said a note was also found that was believed to have come from the shooter and that the two had a relationship.

“In general, a lot of it was about their relationship and the fact that they were obviously having problems at the time,” Rodriguez said.

Due to the discovery, curfews were imposed and classes at the university were cancelled until Tuesday.

Police believe the shooter entered the dorm as a guest of Avila. Jones College is one of 11 dorms on campus. The shooter's name has not been released.

Counseling services are available to anyone in need. Police said they had not previously received any calls in connection with the couple.

“We will embrace our students,” DesRoches said.

Rice University released a statement on Monday evening:

“Dear Rice Community,

It is with great sadness that we inform you that Andrea Rodriguez Avila, a student at Jones College, was found dead in her room on campus today during a well-being check by RUPD. According to investigators on site, Andrea is believed to be the victim of homicide. A second person, who was not a member of the Rice community, was also found dead in the room. Investigators believe the second person died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound and may have known Andrea. There were no signs of forced entry into her room. Rest assured that RUPD is working with Houston Police and our campus is safe.

As you come together to support one another, please respect the Jones community by allowing them the space to grieve. We expect more memorial information and resources to be released in the coming days.

We mourn the loss of a wonderful person who left us far too soon. If you need someone to talk to, please contact your college MAs, RAs, coordinators, or any of our staff at the Rice Counseling Center and Wellbeing Office who are here to support you during this terrible time. Students who need support should contact Wellbeing at 713-348-3311, this number is available 24/7. Faculty and staff who need support should use the Employee Assistance Program 24/7 at 888-881-5462.

Bridget Gorman, Dean of Students

Zachary Ball, master's degree from Jones College

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