Laken Riley was found dead near a lake at University of Georgia on 22 February 2024 around 12:38 p.m. She was a 22-year-old nursing student from Augusta University. She died from blunt force trauma. The evidence suggests the killing was “a solo act” and was a very isolated incident.
Jose Antonio Ibarra has been charged with very serious crimes, including murder and kidnapping. He does not have an extensive criminal history. Jose Ibarra is 5 feet 3 inches and weighs 170 pounds. The UGA Police Chief revealed this information during a news and was also mentioned that the suspect is not a citizen of the United States and is a resident of Athens. According to police,
“Riley was unconscious and not breathing, and had received visible injuries. Officers immediately started rendering medical aid, but arriving emergency medical responders determined that she was dead”.
What Happened With Laken Riley?
Laken Riley stands at a height of 5 feet 4 inches tall. She weighed around 115 lbs, according to a UGA Police Department report. She has a sister named, Lauren Phillips. She wrote,
“The best sister and my built in best friend from the very first second. I’m not sure how I’m going to do this but it’s all going to be for you from now on. I cannot wait to give you the biggest hug someday. I will miss and love you forever Laken.”
Before entering Augusta’s Athens nursing program, she attended UGA and made the Dean’s List. In August 2023, she received her honorary white coat. In 2025, she was set to graduate with a bachelor’s in nursing. The university said,
“Not only was she a bright and dedicated student, but she had the distinct honor of making the Fall 2023 Dean’s List. The College of Nursing will miss Laken’s spirit on campus, and our hearts go out to her family and friends. We know that she would have been a wonderful nurse, and her passing is a loss for the profession and the communities she would have graciously served.”
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Lake Herrick was a popular spot on UGA’s campus bounded by practice fields and a forest park. Authorities are currently investigating the incident, so it’s best to steer clear for now. The UGA Police Chief reassured the public that despite the investigation, there is no immediate danger on campus.
