Students react to UT homicide investigation

Students who feared the worst are now mourning the loss of their classmate and friend. 

It was only Haruka Weiser's first year at the University of Texas but it's clear she was loved by her peers. Many of them came together on the East Mall to honor her memory and spirit at a memorial. 

Earlier today, students were trying to digest the news that the body found was Haruka. She was reported missing after she didn't come home from rehearsal on Sunday night. We now know police are looking for someone who may have been the last person to see her. 

Janie Macklin knew 18-year-old Haruka Weiser. Both students studied dance at UT. 

"It's crazy to think this could happen to someone that happy and lively," says Janie. 

A happy and lively life cut short.

At an afternoon press conference, police said that Haruka was last seen leaving a drama building on Sunday, April 3 between 9:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Haruka's roommates reported her missing on Monday, April 4 after Haruka never returned to her dorm room.

Police say the suspect was last seen with a red or pink woman's bicycle on campus. They're asking the public to call with any information they may have. There is up to a $15,000 reward for information leading to the suspect's identification. Police are urging students and faculty to remain vigilant.

The Capital Area Crime Stoppers, the Governor’s Crime Stoppers Program and the US Marshals office have offered a combined reward of $15,000.

Detectives are asking anyone with information, or who recognize the bicycle or any of the persons in the video, to contact APD Homicide at 512-974-5372.

Ways to report a tip anonymously include:
TIPS Hotline - 512-472-TIPS (8477) OR 1-800-893-TIPS (8477)
Text “tip103 + your message” to CRIMES (274637)

You can also download APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, for free on iPhone and Android.