WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | Preliminary autopsy results; Lauren Burk's death ruled a homicide

Preliminary autopsy results; Lauren Burk's death ruled a homicide

Mar. 6, 2008

AUBURN, Ala. (WTVM) - The Lee County Coroner has released preliminary autopsy findings. The report indicates 18 year old Lauren Burk died from a single gun shot wound. Authorities are ruling Burk's death a homicide.

Auburn Police say around 9:00 p.m. Tuesday, they responded to the call of an injured female on Alabama Highway 147.  When they arrived, they found 18-year-old Lauren Burk suffering from a single gunshot wound.  Burk was transported to the East Alabama Medical Center, where she later died.

Then around 9:30 p.m., Auburn Police received a call that a 2001 black Honda Civic was on fire in the Hinton Field parking lot on the Auburn University campus.  Emergency crews quickly responded and put the blaze out.

Further investigation yielded that the car was registered to Burk. Both crime scenes are being investigated by the Auburn Police Department and the Department of Forensic Sciences. 

In the meantime a task force has been formed. The FBI, Lee County Sheriff's Department, Auburn Police Department,  Auburn University Police, and the Department of Forensic Sciences have joined forces to find Burk's killer. 

Yet, no further details regarding arrests or Burk's death can be released at this time.

Alabama Governor Bob Riley's office is issuing a $10,000 reward for any information that will lead to an arrest and conviction in this case.

On Wednesday, A University spokesman told WTVM.com, "There is no indication of additional danger to campus or student safety."  City-campus police have increased presence on the streets to ensure the safety of citizens.

A group has been formed online in the Facebook community. Those with a Facebook account can view comments posted by friends of Lauren Burk.

News Leader 9 is following all developing details in this story. We will keep you up-to-date online and on-air.

If you would like to share your comments or concerns about this story, e-mail them to newsrelease@wtvm.com.

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NOTICE: The Auburn University Security Shuttle service hours have been extended for students needing to move across campus from 6pm to 7am when Tiger Transit is not operating. This schedule will be in effect until further notice. Students can call (334) 707-2004 or (334) 707-2005 for a ride.