6: Campus Crime

LSU, a well-known public university in the South, is recognized for its strong academics and lively student life. However, LSU has experienced serious crime, one of the most shocking incidents was the tragic murder of LSU student Allison Rice in September 2022. This crime, which happened just off campus, deeply affected the LSU community and raised concerns about student safety and violence.

On the night of September 16, 2022, Allison Rice, a 21-year-old senior at LSU, was shot and killed while sitting in her car near railroad tracks on Government Street in Baton Rouge, not far from campus. Rice was a marketing major and a well-liked student. She had been driving home after spending time with friends. While waiting for a train to pass, someone fired multiple shots into her car, killing her. The shooter ran away, and despite a thorough investigation, the case remained unsolved for months, leaving both the campus and the local community in shock.

Allison Rice’s murder was not just a personal loss but also a reminder that students can be in danger, even when they are not on campus. The fact that the crime seemed random made it even scarier for LSU students and their families. It also led to important discussions about the safety of areas around campus where students often go.

After the murder, the LSU community and people in Baton Rouge quickly responded. Students, faculty, and staff gathered to honor Rice by holding vigils on campus. LSU President William Tate IV released a statement expressing the university’s deep sadness and offered support to everyone affected. Counseling services were provided to help students deal with grief and fear after the crime.

In response to the crime, the Baton Rouge Police Department and LSU’s campus police increased patrols around the university. More police were stationed near off-campus housing, popular student spots, and streets that students often travel on to help prevent more violence and to reassure the community that they were working hard to find the person responsible. LSU also took steps to show that student safety is a top priority. The university reviewed its safety policies and encouraged students to use campus resources like the Tiger Trails shuttle system and emergency services. LSU also reminded students to be extra careful, especially at night, and to look out for their personal safety.

Allison Rice’s murder brought attention to the growing crime problem in Baton Rouge, especially in areas near LSU. Like many cities across the U.S., Baton Rouge has seen an increase in crime, and students are sometimes at risk, particularly in off-campus areas. Rice’s death showed that campus safety isn’t just about what happens on school grounds it also involves the surrounding neighborhoods where students live and hang out.

This tragic event led to bigger conversations about making students safer at LSU and other universities. Students, parents, and school officials started pushing for more safety measures, such as adding more surveillance cameras, improving street lighting, and increasing police presence near student housing.

The murder of Allison Rice is one of the most heartbreaking crimes the LSU community has experienced in recent years. It serves as a powerful reminder of students' safety challenges, both on and off campus. While LSU and local law enforcement have taken steps to address safety concerns, this crime highlights the need for ongoing efforts to protect students and prevent future tragedies.