LSU Student Shot and Killed At D.C. House Party During Break

An 18-year-old LSU student who was visiting home for the holidays was shot and killed, authorities say.

The Metropolitan Police Department in Washington D.C., says Ashlei Hinds, a native of Clinton, Maryland, was shot inside a hotel room around 1:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 1.

She was pronounced dead at the scene, WAFB News reported.

Jelani Cousin, 18,  was arrested on Jan. 2 and charged with second-degree murder in connection with Ashlei’s death.

Ashlei’s family said she was studying sports administration at the university and wanted to pursue a career as a sports agent.

Her family says she was out with friends for New Year’s Eve when she was killed.

LSU has released a statement in support of Hinds’ family and those impacted by her death:

“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. Any of our students who are in need of counseling or someone to talk to because of this tragedy can contact the Student Health Center’s Mental Health Service at 225-578-8774 for free assistance.”