Police Dispute Misinformation About Texas A&M Student's Death Following Mom's Doubts About Suicide Theory

Authorities in Austin, Texas, are addressing public confusion and online speculation surrounding the death of 19-year-old Brianna Marie Aguilera, a Texas A&M student. Police confirmed on Thursday, December 4, that Aguilera died by suicide.

Aguilera's mother, Stephanie Rodriguez, previously expressed doubts about the circumstances of her daughters death, telling media outlets she could not believe Brianna would take her own life. These claims have sparked online debate and criticism of the police investigation.

"While it is unusual for a department to discuss a suicide publicly, misinformation has circulated and caused further distress for innocent people and families," Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said during a press conference. "Assertions that the police failed in their duties are inaccurate."

Davis, a mother of four, added, "Grief can lead to strong emotions and many questions, but sometimes the facts do not match the answers we hope for. This is one of those cases."

Rodriguez suggested alternate scenarios, including the possibility of an accidental fall or foul play. She speculated that Aguilera, who was thin and fragile, might have fallen after consuming alcohol or been pushed. Police investigations have found no evidence to support these claims.

Aguileras body was discovered early on Saturday, November 29, outside the 21-story 21 Rio apartment complex near the University of Texas at Austin campus. She had been visiting Austin to watch the Aggies play in the Lone Star Showdown against the Longhorns.

The 19-year-old was in a 17th-floor apartment with three other women when she fell from the balcony. Police confirmed she had been speaking with her boyfriend minutes before her death. "Witnesses heard Brianna arguing on the phone, which was confirmed by call records," said Austin Police lead homicide detective Robert Marshall. "The call lasted approximately one minute, just two minutes before emergency services received a call about her body."

Rodriguez mentioned she was unable to reach her daughter in the hours leading up to her death and speculated about a possible argument among the women in the apartment. Police, however, found Aguilera had an earlier altercation at a tailgate event at the Austin Rugby Club on Friday, November 28. Witnesses reported she had been asked to leave, dropped her phone multiple times, and staggered into nearby woods.

Regarding reports of physical altercations, Detective Marshall said, "The only evidence of any conflict was Brianna punching one of her friends, who then tried to assist her."

Marshall and homicide Sergeant Nathan Sexton noted the difficulty of facing public speculation about their investigative efforts. Sexton emphasized, "Every piece of evidence in this case points to suicide."

Authorities encourage anyone experiencing mental health struggles or emotional distress to reach out to resources such as 988 for support and assistance.

Author: Jackson Miller