ATHENS, Ga. — The campus of the University of Georgia was rocked by the discovery of a woman’s body on Thursday, prompting suspicions of foul play. University police responded to a call requesting a welfare check on a friend who had failed to return from a morning run at the intramural fields. The subsequent search led to the discovery of the woman’s body behind Lake Herrick, sparking a joint investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Athens-Clarke County Police, and university police.
According to UGA Police Chief Jeff Clark, the victim was not a student at UGA but a student at another Athens school, Augusta University. Despite initial confusion over her enrollment status, it was confirmed that the victim was an undergraduate student at the University of Georgia until the spring of 2023, after which she joined the Augusta University nursing program in Athens. The tragic incident has led to the cancellation of classes at both UGA and the Augusta University College of Nursing.
Authorities have confirmed that foul play is suspected and are actively investigating the case, considering the woman’s death as a potential crime and seeking a suspect. The tragic occurrence has shaken the campus community, with police working diligently to identify and apprehend the perpetrator. The devastating news has left students, parents, and campus partners in mourning and disbelief.
This marks the first homicide on the UGA campus in more than 20 years, alarming both students and parents and raising concerns regarding campus safety. The incident has reignited discussions around security improvements, including the implementation of measures beyond the existing safety app. As the campus grapples with the shock and grief, law enforcement officials are leaving no stone unturned in their relentless pursuit of justice.
The discovery of the woman’s body comes in the wake of another on-campus death at UGA, further deepening the sense of unease and urgency for enhanced safety measures. The community remains on high alert as police continue their efforts to gather evidence and locate potential witnesses to assist in the investigation. In support of the ongoing inquiry, authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and report it to the UGA Police Department immediately.