Bianca Tiller, the former roommate of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old Georgia nursing student tragically found dead after not returning from a morning jog, has shared memories to Fox News of Riley’s passion for running, her dream of becoming a nurse, and her innate kindness. Meeting during their freshman year at the University of Georgia, Tiller recalls Riley’s dedication to her daily runs, tracked meticulously with her Apple Watch, and her hard-working nature, especially on the rare occasions she missed her exercise.

Riley’s disappearance sparked immediate concern among friends, leading to a prompt call to UGA Police, who discovered her body with visible injuries near the campus intramural fields. The case quickly escalated into a homicide investigation, culminating in the arrest of Jose Antonio Ibarra, a 26-year-old with no prior connection to Riley, on murder charges. UGA Police Chief Jeffrey L. Clark described the murder as a “crime of opportunity,” underlining the randomness and brutality of the act.

Tiller’s reflections paint a picture of Riley as an extraordinarily kind individual, whose aspirations in nursing were evident long before her tragic end. Riley, who transitioned to Augusta University’s Athens campus for nursing after three years at UGA, had always been drawn to helping others, a trait Tiller admired. From working in a nursing home before college to pursuing a biology degree, Riley’s life was a testament to her commitment to care for those around her.

The former roommate’s testimony reveals a deeply connected and vibrant community at UGA, now mourning the loss of one of its brightest lights. Tiller emphasizes Riley’s role as a unifying figure, bringing people together with her warmth and generosity. The safety of the area where Riley was found, commonly frequented by students and locals alike, adds to the shock and sense of loss felt by the community.