The family of 19-year-old Texas A&M University student Brianna Aguilera has enlisted prominent Houston attorney Tony Buzbee to challenge the Austin Police Department’s investigation into her death, alleging the probe was rushed and incomplete as authorities indicated evidence pointing to suicide.

Aguilera, a Laredo native and political science sophomore with aspirations to become a lawyer, was found unresponsive outside the 21 Rio Apartments in West Campus shortly after midnight on November 29, 2025. She had attended a tailgate party earlier that evening ahead of the annual University of Texas-Texas A&M football rivalry game. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene from injuries consistent with a fall from the 17th-floor unit where she had been staying with acquaintances.

On December 4, APD held a news conference detailing findings from surveillance footage, witness statements, and digital evidence recovered from Aguilera’s phone. Lead homicide detective Robert Marshall outlined a timeline: Aguilera arrived at the apartment around 11 p.m. after becoming intoxicated at the tailgate and being asked to leave. Most of the group departed by 12:30 a.m., leaving her with three others. At 12:43 a.m., she borrowed a friend’s phone for a brief, heated conversation with her out-of-town boyfriend. Minutes later, a 911 call reported an unresponsive person below.

Investigators recovered Aguilera’s lost phone from a nearby wooded area and found a deleted digital note dated November 25, addressed to specific individuals, which they described as indicative of suicidal intent. Marshall also noted prior comments Aguilera made to friends in October expressing similar thoughts, along with texts sent that evening. No evidence suggested involvement by others, and the case was not being treated as criminal.

APD Chief Lisa Davis emphasized the rarity of publicly discussing such cases but cited the need to counter circulating misinformation causing harm to innocent parties. The department extended condolences to the family and clarified that the Travis County Medical Examiner would determine official cause and manner of death, with autopsy and toxicology results pending for 60 to 90 days.

The following day, Buzbee, joined by the Gamez Law Firm and Aguilera’s parents Manuel Aguilera and Stephanie Rodriguez, held a counter news conference in Houston. Buzbee described the APD’s approach as “sloppy,” “unprofessional,” and premature, arguing conclusions were drawn within hours without key elements like the full autopsy. He disputed the note’s characterization, suggesting it was a creative writing assignment from a prior class, and highlighted potential inconsistencies, including reports of a possible altercation at the tailgate involving another female later present in the apartment.

Buzbee also referenced a social media post from an individual claiming to hear disturbances from upper floors around the time, alleging it was not fully pursued. He called for a new lead investigator or involvement from the Texas Rangers, planning to submit evidence to Governor Greg Abbott if needed. Rodriguez expressed disbelief in the suicide narrative, portraying her daughter as driven and full of plans.

APD responded by reaffirming the information presented and noting the investigation remains open. Officials stressed that only the medical examiner determines cause and manner, and no such official ruling has been made.

Aguilera attended Texas A&M’s Bush School of Government and Public Service, known for leadership development. Described as an honor student and former competitive cheerleader, she served as a role model to younger siblings and maintained strong family ties. Friends recalled her enthusiasm for the rivalry weekend, with no overt signs of distress.

The incident occurred in West Campus, a bustling student area near UT Austin that sees increased activity during game days. Safety concerns in high-rise residences have been raised periodically, though falls are infrequent.

Community reactions include vigils and fundraisers supporting funeral costs and a potential scholarship in Aguilera’s name. Discussions on mental health resources have intensified, with campuses offering counseling and national lifelines available.

Buzbee, a Texas A&M alumnus with experience in high-profile cases, emphasized the family’s quest for thorough answers over assumptions. Parents have voiced frustration with communication, though APD maintains efforts to inform them.

As results are awaited, misinformation has spread online, prompting police clarifications that no homicide classification or arrests are imminent.

This case highlights tensions between preliminary findings and family perspectives in sensitive investigations. Experts note the importance of comprehensive processes, especially with delayed forensic outcomes.

Authorities continue gathering information and encourage tips from the public.

For the Aguilera family, the pursuit of clarity persists amid profound loss, with tributes focusing on Brianna’s promising future and positive spirit.