The communities of the University of Georgia and Augusta University after the disappearance of a nursing student.
It is being reported that Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student from Augusta University, life was tragically cut short. Laken was found deceased on the University of Georgia’s campus, shocking the college and the town.
Laken, described as a bright and promising junior, was not just a Dean’s List student; she was a young individual with dreams, aspirations, and a passion for nursing. The statement released by Augusta University President Brooks Keel highlighted the profound loss felt by the community, extending their deepest sympathies to Laken’s family.
“It is with deepest sorrow that I share with you the news that one of our students at our College of Nursing campus at Athens has passed away,” Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel said in a statement. “Police have said they suspect foul play. The receipt of this news this afternoon was shocking to all of us.”
The details surrounding Laken’s death are distressing. She was discovered in a forested area behind Lake Herrick, a serene part of UGA’s campus, under circumstances that led authorities to suspect foul play. This was after a friend reported Laken missing, having not returned from her morning run. The discovery of her body, marked by visible injuries, has sparked an intensive investigation. Police have not disclosed what evidence leads them to believe there was foul play.
In response to this tragedy, both the University of Georgia and Augusta University canceled classes, a decision reflecting the depth of the impact on the student body and faculty. It’s a time of mourning, reflection, and a pressing call for answers.
The investigation is currently underway, with law enforcement exploring all avenues to bring justice to Laken. Notably, the use of advanced investigative techniques, such as setting up a “geofence” to monitor the movement around Lake Herrick, indicates the seriousness with which this case is being treated. However, the investigation may be hampered due to the nationwide AT&T outage, which affected communication and potentially crucial investigative leads.
Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz expressed his condolences, emphasizing the collective mourning of the city and the commitment to support the ongoing investigation.
“It is with deepest sorrow that I share with you the news that one of our students at our College of Nursing campus at Athens has passed away,” Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel said in a statement. “Police have said they suspect foul play. The receipt of this news this afternoon was shocking to all of us.”
