Over the years, random shootings throughout the USA have taken many lives. This time around, the heinous crime caught an innocent LSU student in its mix. Some prominent faces of the LSU are in disbelief upon hearing about this ill-fated incident. Amidst them is LSU’s All-American forward–Angel Reese.

We have known Angel Reese to be a fierce competitor on the basketball court. However, the Bayou Barbie couldn’t hold onto her emotions when she came across this disheartening piece of information.

Angel Reese pays tribute to her LSU junior

Angel Reese recently took to Instagram to share a heartbreaking update about a native from her hometown. She re-shared a post about the shocking demise of an LSU freshman on her story. She also provided prayers for her and her family. Apparently, someone shot and killed 18-year-old Ashlei Hinds in northwest Washington D.C. on Monday. Hailing from Clinton, Maryland, Hinds was visiting her home for New Year when this unfortunate incident took place. As per a press release from the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington D.C., the forensics team confirmed Ashlei’s death at the scene. The authorities estimated that someone shot her at around 1:30 in her hotel room.

Following this, police have arrested and charged 18-year-old Jelani Cousin in connection with this second-degree murder. According to her family, Ashlei Hinds was pursuing her dream of becoming a successful sports agent. For this, she enrolled herself in the sports administration program at LSU. Sadly, her chase for this dream came to a tragic end when she became a victim of this deadly shooting just about an hour into the New Year.

After this, LSU released an official statement in the consolation of her family and friends.

LSU offers solidarity

The LSU immediately extended its support to Ashlei’s family and her classmates. The administration released a statement saying, “We are deeply saddened to learn that one of our students, Ashlei Hinds of Clinton, MD, was killed yesterday in the Washington, D.C., area. This is a tragic loss for Ashlei’s family, friends, and our entire university community. Our hearts are with Ashlei’s loved ones during this difficult time, along with our thoughts, our prayers, and our support.” In addition to this, LSU also provided details about its mental health center. This is for all those students who Ashlei Hinds’ sudden passing may have triggered.

The entire LSU staff and its students are standing in support of Ashlie’s family. Further, an icon like Angel Reese taking an active part in providing comfort and solidarity is encouraging to see for everyone. We can only offer hope and pray that the family has enough strength to overcome this unfathomable loss.