New Orleans College Student Pronounced Dead at Hospital After Uber Drive

A New Orleans college student was pronounced dead when she arrived at a hospital after a Uber drive home. Ciaya Jordan Whetstone was a junior majoring in business at the University of New Orleans. 

The 21-year-old called an Uber after going out to a Mardi Gras party on Friday night. After the bar, Whestone’s friend took her to her boyfriend’s house. From there, she called an Uber to check on her dog in the middle of the night. 

The police were able to find details based on her friend’s postings on social media of what happened. In a Facebook post, Whestone’s co-worker Dawn Gegenheimer said she called the Uber around 1 a.m. Saturday after her friend Juliette Orr told the New Orleans Advocate she called an Uber at the end of the night. 

It’s unknown if she knew the Uber driver or the events that led to being dropped off at the hospital. Uber has deactivated the user’s account that dropped her off and released a statement. 

“Our thoughts are with Ciaya Whetstone’s family as they grieve the loss of their daughter. We stand ready to assist law enforcement with their investigation.”

The New Orleans Police Department says the incident remains under investigation. Whestore’s stepfather refused to comment until the cause of death was revealed. 

“Right now, my concern is getting Ciaya home so we can lay our angel to rest.” 

University of New Orleans president also released a statement addressing the terrible incident. “As a University, few things are more challenging than dealing with the sadness of the death of a student. Our thoughts are with Ciaya’s family and friends. We are offering counseling services to students and employees who need support.”