UPDATE: Plainview police released a statement April 6 indicating the cause of death was suicide.
By Bob Allen
Police are investigating the death of a student in a residence hall on the campus of Wayland Baptist University in Plainview, Texas.
Officials at the private Christian school affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas confirmed the death of Rachel Nicole Bates, a 19-year-old freshman biology major from Spring, Texas, a Houston suburb, in a press release.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of one of our students,” said Wayland Baptist University President Paul Armes. “The tragic loss of such a young life is difficult. Our prayers go out to her family and friends.”
Police and medical personnel were called to the scene about 6 p.m. Tuesday, after someone discovered a body on campus. Police said the death did not appear to be a homicide but gave no other information about the cause of death.
The medical examiner is performing a full autopsy and will make results available to the Plainview Police Department.
Grief counselors were on hand March 31 for students, and continuing resources will be available, university officials announced. About 1,000 students are enrolled on the Plainview campus, and the average class size is 16 students.
“Our prayers go out to her family and friends,” Arms said. “We covet the prayers and support of all of Wayland’s friends and family members. This is certainly a time of great pain for everyone involved, especially Rachel’s family.”
According to local media reports, graveside services for Rachel Bates have been scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday in Laurel Land Funeral Home and Cemetery in Dallas.