Prosecutors Reveal Final Texts Sent by Laken Riley Before Tragic Death
New details have emerged about the heartbreaking final moments of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old University of Georgia nursing student who was tragically killed while jogging on February 22, 2024. During the November 19 court hearing, prosecutors shared Riley’s last communication with her mother, Allyson Phillips, just before she left for her morning run at the university’s intramural fields.
“Good morning,” Riley texted her mother, according to 11 Alive. “About to go for a run if you’re free to talk.”
Less than ten minutes later, she attempted to call her mother and later dialed 911, though the emergency call was abruptly cut short, prosecutors revealed. Phillips, unaware of the situation, missed Riley’s call and tried to follow up approximately 20 minutes later, sending multiple frantic texts as she became increasingly alarmed.
“You’re making me nervous not answering while you’re out running. Are you OK?” read one of Phillips’ messages, as reported by CBS News. In another, she pleaded, “Please call me. I’m worried sick about you.”
Riley’s Body Discovered
By the time Phillips sent those texts, prosecutors allege, Riley had already encountered her accused killer, Jose Ibarra, on a wooded trail. According to court testimony, the 26-year-old Venezuelan national, who entered the US illegally in 2022 and is believed to share ties with the Tren de Aragua gang, fatally attacked Riley around 9:28 am following a violent struggle.
When Riley failed to return home, a friend reported her missing. Her body was discovered in the woods on the same day she went jogging at around 1 pm. Georgia Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Lucas Breyer testified that Riley’s clothing appeared to have been “heavily manipulated,” with her running tights partially pulled down and her upper garments displaced.
Ibarra, whose DNA was found at the scene, faces charges that include assault, kidnapping, murder, and hindering a 911 call. He has pleaded not guilty and has chosen not to testify in his defense.
Local Community Mourns Riley’s Untimely Death
The tragedy has left the University of Georgia community reeling. FBI Director Christopher Wray addressed Riley’s death during a press conference in March, expressing his sorrow for her family and friends.
“I want to tell you how heartbroken I am,” Wray said, according to CBS News. “Not just for the family, friends, classmates, and staff who are grieving Laken’s loss. I’m saddened to see that sense of peace shattered by Laken’s murder.”
As the trial continues, Riley’s loved ones and community remain steadfast in honoring her memory, seeking justice for the vibrant life taken far too soon.
