News Summary
Jade ‘Sage’ McKissic, a dedicated junior at the University of Houston, was found deceased near Brays Bayou after being reported missing. Her passing has left the campus community in shock and mourning. Investigations indicate no signs of foul play, and an autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death. The university has provided counseling resources to support students during this tragic time, as safety concerns rise among the student body. The Houston Police Department is actively looking into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Houston, Texas
Jade “Sage” McKissic, a 20-year-old University of Houston student, was found dead on September 15, 2025, near Brays Bayou. Her body was discovered closely situated to Spur 5 South, less than a mile from the university campus. McKissic had been reported missing since September 11, following her last known sighting as she left LA Burgers and Daiquiris on North MacGregor Way in the Third Ward.
Before her disappearance, McKissic had reportedly been out socializing with friends at local bars but left alone without her cell phone. Surveillance cameras captured her purchasing a drink at a gas station shortly after leaving the bar, and she was last seen walking towards Brays Bayou. The location of where her body was located lies approximately 2.5 miles from the site of her last sighting.
Authorities reported that there were no signs of trauma or foul play evident on McKissic’s body, although an autopsy is currently being conducted to ascertain the cause of death. A relative of McKissic expressed that the news of her passing came as a ‘total shock,’ highlighting her active role as a diligent student and dedicated church member.
McKissic was pursuing a degree in strategic communications and advertising as a junior. She worked as a desk assistant on campus and contributed as a member of the student orientation team, showcasing her involvement in university life.
The Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of Houston, Paul Kittle, conveyed his deep sorrow regarding McKissic’s death and noted that the university was awaiting further updates from investigative authorities. In light of this tragic event, counseling and support resources have been made available for students who may need assistance coping with the loss.
The news of McKissic’s tragic death has sent shockwaves throughout the campus community, with numerous students expressing their concern over safety, particularly regarding the risks associated with being out alone. Despite the serious nature of the situation, the University of Houston did not issue a campus-wide alert, as the incident was not deemed an ongoing threat to the safety of the campus community.
The Houston Police Department is actively investigating the surrounding circumstances of McKissic’s death and continues to seek clarity regarding the series of events leading to this devastating outcome. As the investigation unfolds, the loss of Jade “Sage” McKissic has left many in the Houston community grieving and searching for answers.
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Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle: Jade McKissic Vigils
- Wikipedia: Jade McKissic
- Fox 26 Houston: Jade McKissic Dead
- Google Search: Jade McKissic
- KHOU: Missing UH Student Body Found
- Google Scholar: Jade McKissic
- People: UH Student Found Dead
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jade McKissic
- Black Enterprise: Missing Houston College Student
- 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.