News Summary
Jade McKissic, a 20-year-old junior at the University of Houston, was discovered deceased in Brays Bayou shortly after being reported missing. Friends had last seen her socializing at local bars before leaving alone. Authorities confirmed her identity, and while no signs of trauma were found, the cause of death remains under investigation. The university community is in mourning, with support resources initiated for students. The Houston Police Department is actively exploring circumstances surrounding her death.
Houston – Jade McKissic, a 20-year-old student from the University of Houston, was found dead in Brays Bayou on September 15, just four days after she was reported missing. McKissic was last seen on the evening of September 11 when she left the 3700 block of North MacGregor Way wearing a black tank top and black shorts.
The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences confirmed her identity on September 18, and although an autopsy revealed no signs of trauma or foul play, the cause of death is still under investigation. McKissic’s body was discovered approximately 2.5 miles from where she was last seen.
Friends reported that she had been socializing at local bars before leaving alone without her cell phone; surveillance footage captured her purchasing a drink at a nearby gas station shortly before she headed towards Brays Bayou. University officials and fellow students have expressed profound sadness over her death.
Background Information
Jade McKissic was a junior majoring in Strategic Communications and Advertising. She served as a front desk assistant at the university and was an active member of the 2025 UH Orientation team. Known by the nickname “Sage,” she was also involved in local church and school groups, which highlighted her connection to her community and peers.
Upon hearing of her passing, university officials extended their condolences to McKissic’s family and described the impact of her death on the University of Houston community as profound. The university has initiated support resources and counseling for students coping with the shock and sadness of this tragic event.
In a letter from the Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of Houston, students were urged to support one another during this difficult time as they navigate the loss of their peer.
Investigation Details
The Houston Police Department is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding McKissic’s death. The findings from the autopsy and the lack of evidence pointing to foul play have left many questions unanswered, but investigators continue to explore all possibilities regarding her whereabouts before her death.
As the investigation unfolds, concerns among students and the broader community are palpable, reflecting the deep sense of connection and care within the University of Houston. The university is encouraging students to reach out for emotional support, underscoring the importance of community during challenging times.
In conclusion, the tragic incident surrounding Jade McKissic serves as a painful reminder of the unpredictability of life. The ongoing investigation aims to provide clarity, while the University of Houston and its students continue to remember her vibrant spirit and community contributions.
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Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle
- Wikipedia: Jade McKissic
- FOX 26 Houston
- Google Search: Jade McKissic
- KHOU 11 News
- Google Scholar: Jade McKissic
- People
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jade McKissic
- Click2Houston
- Google News: Jade McKissic
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris 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 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
