Monday, May 31, 2004
Oxford Eagle
By KELLY SHACKLETON
Staff Writer
Originally believed to be a suicide, the death of popular
University of Mississippi Instructor Kristi Waterson is now being
called murder by the Yoknapatawpha County Sheriff's Department.
"Evidence discovered during the autopsy clearly shows Ms.
Waterson's death to be a homicide," said YCSD Public Information
Officer Elizabeth Jones. Waterson was found in her apartment at 588
Hathorn Road by her roommate at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Sunday,
May 23rd. Jones would not elaborate on what kind of evidence was
uncovered during the Coroner's examination or if one or more
assailants were involved.
"We have no suspects at this time," Jones said, "but our
investigation is ongoing." Jones declined to comment on possible
theories that YCSD detectives may have.
Through a spokesman, the Waterson family released the following
statement: "We are deeply saddened at the grievous loss of our
daughter and hope that the individual or individuals responsible
for this crime will do the right thing and turn himself in to
authorities. To aid the authorities in their search, the family is
offering a $75,000 reward for
information leading to the apprehension and conviction of Kristi's
murderer."
Waterson obtained her undergraduate degree in Political Science
and her Masters of Business Administration from the University of
Mississippi and taught in the School of Business Administration.
Colleagues were moved by the loss of one of their own. "She will
be sorely missed my so many, I'm sure," said John Brewer, Head of
the UM School of Business Administration. "Ms. Waterson's unique
methods of teaching and reaching out to students will not be
forgotten."
"She was one of a kind," said Nora Percy, also an instructor in
the Business School. "To have so much and to have it taken away so
suddenly -- there is a lesson there for us all."
Ole Miss students, too, were shocked.
"It's a terrible day for the school and for the entire student
body," said Hunter Nelson, President of Delta Tau Chi fraternity.
"It's definitely a tragedy," said Deborah Eaton, "someone who has
everything like she did, and now for her to be gone. There's nothing
for us all to do but move on, I guess."
"She was a great teacher; I really liked her," said Rob LaRouche.
"Violence like this is horrible. It's not what school should be
about."
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
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