Murder Victim Identified As Missing College Student

MIAMI, FL — Miami police have identified the victim from a weekend slaying as a missing 19-year-0ld Barry University student. Priscilla Torres died of multiple gunshot wounds early Saturday morning in the area of NW 29th Avenue and 12th Street. She was taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center by Miami Fire Rescue where she was pronounced dead.

Officer Michael Vega of the Miami Police Department told Patch on Monday that several members of the media noticed similarities between the police sketch of the murder victim and Torres, who was reported missing by her mother.

Torres was found around 4:30 a.m. when someone heard shots and called police.

"Once officers arrived, they located an unresponsive woman in the area of NW 29th Avenue and 12th Street. The woman appeared to have suffered gunshot wounds," Miami police said.

Police said they were searching for the Nissan Sentra that Torres had been driving. The Sentra has a Florida tag number of HZBU86.

"My heart just dropped when I read the email," a Barry University student told WSVN TV on Monday after learning of Torres' death.

Torres, who lived in the college dormitory, was last seen on the Barry University campus on Friday. Shortly before she was found by police, Torres texted a friend that she was on her way back home to Miami Shores where the school is located.

"The motive behind the shooting is unknown," according to Miami police.

Barry University posted information on Monday as to where students and faculty could turn for counseling and psychological services in the wake of the tragedy.

"Words fail to express the shock and deep sorrow that we, her Barry family, are experiencing," school officials said. "However, we cannot imagine the profound heartache and anguish her parents and family members are suffering.

"As we mourn the tragic death of our student, we offer sympathy, prayers and comfort to her family, friends, classmates, faculty and everyone who loved her and shared her young life," school officials added.

To report a tip, contact the Miami Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 305-603-6350. Alternatively, contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471- TIPS (8477), visit www.crimestoppersmiami.com and select “Give a Tip” or Send a text message to 274637. Enter CSMD followed by the tip information and press send.

Photo courtesy Miami Shores Police Department