Unsolved Mystery: Augusta Student’s Death on UGA Campus
TL/DR –
An investigation is under way into the death of Augusta University College of Nursing student, Laken Hope Riley, on the University of Georgia campus. The suspect in custody, Jose Antonio Ibarra, is a Venezuelan migrant, prompting criticism of the Biden administration’s immigration policies from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. A GoFundMe campaign for Riley’s memorial has received over $100,000 in donations to drive homicide awareness and safety for women.
Investigation into Augusta University Nursing Student Death Proceeds, Suspect’s Immigration Status Confirmed
The death investigation of an Augusta University College of Nursing student on the University of Georgia campus continues, revealing the immigration status of a suspect, Jose Antonio Ibarra, now in custody.
Victim Laken Hope Riley, 22, was found dead on campus after jogging. Ibarra, 26, has been charged in Riley’s death and denied bond.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed Ibarra is a Venezuelan migrant and not a U.S. citizen. His brother, Diego Ibarra, faces federal charges of possessing a fraudulent green card.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has requested information related to Riley’s death and has criticised President Joe Biden’s immigration policies.
Vigil and Funeral Service for Victim Laken Hope Riley
Riley’s family announced a funeral service, and her Alpha Chi Omega sorority at UGA has planned a vigil in her remembrance. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign for Riley’s memorial and a scholarship fund has received over $100,000 in donations.
Ibarra, a Venezuelan immigrant, was formerly arrested in 2022 after illegally entering the U.S. He was released for further processing, according to ICE, but was not detained by the NYPD when arrested for other charges later that year.
ICE has lodged a detainer against Ibarra following his recent arrest. Meanwhile, the focus of officials on Ibarra’s immigration status has ignited concerns about border security. Kemp has requested confirmation of Ibarra’s immigration status from Biden and has criticised his immigration policies.
Ibarra’s estranged wife, Layling Franco, has expressed shock over the events and has stated her wish for justice for Riley. She has also emphasised that crimes are not tied to specific nationalities.
Two student organisations of UGA’s Latino community have reported receiving “hate comments” following Riley’s death. They have condemned the bigotry and hatred, stating that grief should not be exploited for racism, hatred, or xenophobia.
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