Laken Riley, a 22-year-old nursing student, was found dead in the woods near the University of Georgia in February 2024. Surveillance footage captured her last moments as she jogged on campus, phone in hand. At 8:55 a.m., Riley texted her mother, “Good morning about to go for run if you’re free to talk [sic].” Minutes later, she attempted a call but couldn’t reach her. At 9:11 a.m., she called 911 before disappearing.
Her killer, Jose Ibarra, 26, was sentenced to life without parole after a court trial in November. Officials described the crime as a “crime of opportunity,” stating Ibarra did not know Riley. He was convicted on multiple charges, including murder and kidnapping.
Riley’s death devastated her loved ones. Her sister, Lauren Phillips, called her “the best sister and my built-in best friend.” Roommate Sofia Magana wrote, “You loved like no one else,” and shared plans they will never fulfill. Another friend, Connolly Huth, reflected, “I will forever be proud to have called you my bestest [sic] friend.”
Riley’s family and friends continue to mourn her tragic loss.
