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Family of Texas A&M Student Seeks Independent Autopsy

A skyline view from a balcony near the University of Texas campus, evoking a sense of reflection.

Austin, Texas, December 20, 2025

The family of Brianna Aguilera, a 19-year-old Texas A&M student, is pursuing an independent autopsy after her tragic fall from a 17th-floor apartment. Concerns have been raised about the Austin Police Department’s handling of the case, particularly regarding the conclusion that Aguilera’s death was a suicide. Her family, represented by attorney Tony Buzbee, plans to request an independent investigation by the Texas Rangers if the inquiry is not reopened. Aguilera was a dedicated student, and her family remains committed to uncovering the truth behind her death.

Austin, Texas – December 20, 2025

The family of Brianna Aguilera, a 19-year-old Texas A&M student who died after falling from a 17th-floor apartment near the University of Texas campus, has announced plans to conduct an independent autopsy to seek further clarity on her death.

Aguilera’s mother, Stephanie Rodriguez, stated that the family intends to proceed with a second autopsy once the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office completes its investigation, which is expected to determine the official cause and manner of death within 60 to 90 days.

Rodriguez and the family’s legal counsel, Houston attorney Tony Buzbee, have publicly criticized the Austin Police Department’s handling of the case, questioning the thoroughness of the investigation and the conclusion that Aguilera’s death was a suicide.

In response to these concerns, Buzbee has indicated plans to request an independent investigation by the Texas Rangers if the case is not reopened with a new investigator. He has prepared 30 to 40 pages of evidence to submit for consideration to the Texas Rangers.

Aguilera, a political science and criminal justice major at Texas A&M, was attending a Texas A&M-versus-Texas tailgate the day before her death. Her family has expressed doubts about the suicide ruling, citing the lack of furniture on the balcony and the physical difficulty Aguilera would have had in climbing the 44-inch railing at 5 feet, 2 inches tall.

The Austin Police Department has stated that Aguilera’s death “remains an active death investigation and is not being investigated as a homicide.” The department emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that further information will be available once the medical examiner completes the autopsy and issues an official ruling.

As the investigation continues, Aguilera’s family remains committed to uncovering the truth surrounding her death and ensuring a thorough and impartial examination of all the circumstances involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the cause of Brianna Aguilera’s death?

The official cause and manner of Brianna Aguilera’s death are currently under investigation by the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office. The family plans to conduct an independent autopsy once the official investigation is completed.

Why is the family seeking an independent autopsy?

The family has expressed concerns about the thoroughness of the Austin Police Department’s investigation and the conclusion that Aguilera’s death was a suicide. They are seeking an independent autopsy to gain further clarity on the circumstances surrounding her death.

What is the status of the investigation?

The Austin Police Department has stated that the investigation into Aguilera’s death remains active and is not being investigated as a homicide. Further information will be available once the medical examiner completes the autopsy and issues an official ruling.

What are the family’s next steps?

If the case is not reopened with a new investigator, the family’s legal counsel plans to request an independent investigation by the Texas Rangers. They have prepared 30 to 40 pages of evidence to submit for consideration to the Texas Rangers.

Key Features of the Case

Feature Details
Victim Brianna Aguilera, 19-year-old Texas A&M student
Incident Fell from a 17th-floor apartment near the University of Texas campus
Family’s Action Announced plans for an independent autopsy
Legal Counsel Houston attorney Tony Buzbee
Investigation Status Austin Police Department’s investigation remains active; awaiting medical examiner’s report
Family’s Concern Questioning the thoroughness of the investigation and the suicide conclusion
Potential Next Step Requesting an independent investigation by the Texas Rangers if the case is not reopened


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STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER

The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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