Police: Video Shows Missing U Of M Student Going Into River
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Minneapolis Police said Monday they will be seeking the assistance of the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office in a water recovery effort to find missing University of Minnesota student Jennifer Houle.
Police said they recovered video evidence Sunday night that indicates Houle, 22, entered the Mississippi River from the 10th Avenue Bridge Friday morning. Houle had been out at Blarney's Pub in Dinkytown and was last seen leaving the area at about 1 a.m. The area where she was spotted entering the river is just blocks away from the bar.
Minneapolis Police said they are not seeking suspects in the incident.
The Minneapolis Police Department is extending its deepest condolences to Houle's family and friends. The Stillwater community gathered for a vigil Sunday night to pray for Houle and her family.
Meanwhile, on campus, the incident left students like sophomore Jaysa Johnson with dark thoughts on what could have happened to Houle.
"We are just so shocked it happened so close to where we are every single day," Johnson said. "This normal, average girl just missing all of the sudden."
At Blarney Pub, where Houle was last seen, owner Mike Mulrooney offered up his help.
"I've spent a great deal of time in prayers and tears," Mulrooney said. "It's tough."
Houle was a Carlson School of Management student set to graduate in May. She was also a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. Danita Brown, the vice provost for student affairs and dean of students, said counseling and support services will continue to be offered to any students, faculty and staff who knew Houle.
The fraternity and sorority community is planning another vigil on Tuesday, March 31, at 7:40 p.m. in Coffman Memorial Union's front plaza.
The Pi Beta Phi sorority is encouraging University of Minnesota students to wear purple around campus to spread awareness for Houle as well as positive thoughts. Purple is her favorite color.
The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office said it was out on the river searching for Houle over the weekend.