University of Texas President Fenves and APD press conference on the investigation into a body found on UT campus.
University of Texas police officers investigated a body that was found between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. The body was found in Waller Creek behind Etter-Harbin Alumni Center, and police immediately suspected a homicide. The victim, whose identity was not released by police, is reported to be in her 20s and a well-known freshman on campus.
“This is a difficult time for our community. There is a lot of justified anxiety, and I want to let you know that law enforcement is working hard to investigate this week’s homicide while campus leadership is actively addressing safety at UT Austin.
“I have requested that the Austin Police Department, with its deep knowledge and experience, lead the investigation and coordinate closely with UTPD, University of Texas System police, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Rangers. These law enforcement agencies are fully engaged and moving quickly. They have completed processing the crime scene; are working to identify the victim; and are focused on locating and apprehending a suspect in this unthinkable crime.
“Law enforcement leaders are providing me with continual updates; and I will do the same for you, staying in touch to share information.
“I have also taken additional measures to assure the safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors. If you were on campus last night, you may have seen extra officers and police vehicles from DPS and APD joining UTPD. These patrols will continue as needed. The university will provide extra van shuttles for students after their evening rehearsals near the Winship and Fine Arts buildings. We are reviewing other enhanced safety measures on campus.
“Importantly, I ask all of you to always remain focused on your surroundings while walking; to never walk alone after dark; and to stay on clearly-marked and well-lit sidewalks.
“Based on current information, and with these extra patrols, we will continue to keep the campus open and maintain the regular schedule of classes and events.
“Our students come to The University of Texas at Austin to live, learn and prepare for life and do not expect to be confronted by tragedy during their years on campus.
“Counseling is available for students at the counseling center in the Student Services Building, which will stay open until 7 p.m. this evening. Staff and faculty counseling services are available through the HealthPoint Employee Assistance Program.
“Anyone with information about this crime should call university police at 512-471-4441.
“As we respond to this tragedy, let us work collectively to support one another and to make our community stronger and safer.”
— UT President Gregory Fenves statement
The campus is on high alert and police patrols have been increased on the campus. The UT Police Department increased security on campus with the assistance of Austin police and the Texas Department of Public Safety troopers. Police asked students to be hyper-vigilant about their surroundings.
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