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Parents Sue After Texas A&M Student’s Tragic Death

Parents with attorney in a courthouse for a lawsuit case

Austin, Texas, January 7, 2026

The parents of Brianna Aguilera, a 19-year-old Texas A&M University student, have filed a $1 million wrongful death lawsuit against two Austin organizations. The lawsuit claims that these organizations served alcohol to Aguilera, a minor, during an event, leading to her extreme intoxication and subsequent death. Concerns have been raised about the investigation conducted by the Austin Police Department, which classified the case as a suicide despite the family’s quest for accountability and thorough answers.

Parents File $1 Million Lawsuit Following Tragic Death of Texas A&M Student

A lawsuit against two Austin organizations raises concerns about underage drinking at local events.

Austin, Texas – In a tragic turn of events, the parents of Brianna Aguilera, a 19-year-old Texas A&M University student, have initiated a $1 million wrongful death lawsuit against the Austin Blacks Rugby Club and the University of Texas Latin Economics and Business Association. The lawsuit alleges that the organizations illegally served alcohol to Aguilera during a tailgate event, culminating in her death in November 2025.

The lawsuit, filed in Travis County, details how Aguilera attended the tailgate event around 6 p.m., where she allegedly consumed alcohol over several hours, leading to extreme intoxication. After leaving the event around 10 p.m., she lost her phone in a nearby wooded area and tragically fell to her death from a 17th-floor apartment at 21 Rio Apartments later that night.

The family’s attorney has raised significant questions about the Austin Police Department’s investigation, labeling it premature and incomplete. They assert that their family deserves thorough answers regarding the events leading up to Aguilera’s death, particularly questioning the police’s conclusion that it was a suicide. The introduction of a new witness, who reportedly heard arguing and screaming from the apartment where Aguilera was staying, adds further complexity to the case.

Legal Proceedings and Allegations

The lawsuit accuses both organizations of responsibility for their daughter’s intoxication, holding them accountable for allegedly serving alcohol to a minor. Currently, the Austin Police Department has classified the case as a suicide, stating there’s no evidence of foul play, which has led the family’s legal team to pursue further investigation. They are seeking accountability for the actions of the organizations involved in serving Aguilera alcohol.

Community and Legal Implications

This case brings to light broader societal concerns regarding the responsibilities of organizations that host events where alcohol is served, particularly issues related to underage drinking and the risks associated with over-serving minors. The legal outcome could set precedent in Travis County for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially impacting local businesses and event organizations.

Focus on Local Responsibility

As community engagement increases, it is essential that local organizations maintain a strong commitment to responsible alcohol service. This lawsuit serves as a reminder of the vital importance of adhering to legal regulations concerning alcohol distribution, especially in a university city like Austin where young adults are present in large numbers.

Emphasis on Grieving and Healing

The Aguilera family is seeking at least $1 million in damages to compensate for the grief, torment, and mental anguish resulting from their daughter’s tragic death. The ongoing legal battle not only aims to hold the organizations accountable but also seeks justice and closure for the family as they navigate this heart-wrenching chapter in their lives.

Conclusion

The distressing circumstances surrounding Brianna Aguilera’s death highlight critical issues around underage drinking and event management in Austin’s vibrant community. As the lawsuit unfolds, it will be crucial for local businesses and organizations to reflect on their alcohol-serving practices to prevent future tragedies. Engaging in community conversations and supporting responsible business practices will benefit the local economy and contribute to a safer environment for all residents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the lawsuit about?

The lawsuit alleges that the Austin Blacks Rugby Club and the University of Texas Latin Economics and Business Association illegally served alcohol to 19-year-old Brianna Aguilera, leading to her extreme intoxication and subsequent death in November 2025.

Who is the family’s attorney?

The family’s attorney is Tony Buzbee, who has criticized the Austin Police Department’s investigation and is seeking further accountability from the organizations involved.

What is the status of the police investigation?

The Austin Police Department has classified the case as a suicide, stating there is no evidence of foul play. However, the family’s legal team is calling for a more thorough investigation.

What is the lawsuit seeking?

The lawsuit seeks at least $1 million in damages for the grief, torment, and mental anguish caused by Aguilera’s death.

What concerns does this case raise?

The case highlights concerns about the responsibilities of organizations hosting events where alcohol is served, particularly regarding underage drinking and the potential consequences of over-serving alcohol to minors.

Key Features of the Case

Feature Details
Incident Death of Brianna Aguilera after attending a tailgate event in November 2025
Lawsuit Filed by Aguilera’s parents against Austin Blacks Rugby Club and UT Latin Economics and Business Association
Allegations Illegal alcohol service to a minor leading to extreme intoxication and death
Legal Representation Tony Buzbee representing the family, criticizing the police investigation
Witness Testimony Dannah Rodriguez reported hearing arguing and screaming from the apartment where Aguilera was staying
Police Conclusion Case classified as a suicide with no evidence of foul play
Lawsuit Objective Seeking at least $1 million in damages for grief and mental anguish
Broader Concerns Responsibilities of organizations hosting events with alcohol, underage drinking, and over-serving minors

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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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