The Houston community is mourning the loss of Jade “Sage” McKissic, a 20-year-old University of Houston student whose body was discovered in Brays Bayou less than a week after she was reported missing. Authorities located McKissic on Monday, Sept. 15, near 4998 Spur 5, and her identity was confirmed Thursday, Sept. 18, by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, according to reporting from The Houston Chronicle.
The Houston Police Department (HPD) confirmed that the cause of death is still under investigation. McKissic was last seen leaving the 3700 block of MacGregor Way on Thursday, Sept. 11, wearing a black tank top and black shorts, HPD said. Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances of her death, and no additional information about potential suspects has been provided.
In a statement sent to students, University of Houston Vice President of Student Affairs Paul Kittle expressed profound sorrow and highlighted McKissic’s role on campus. “It is with profound sadness that we share the recent passing of one of our students,” Kittle wrote. “Jade ‘Sage’ McKissic was a campus resident and student employee, and a friend to many in our community. At this time, we do not have details surrounding her death. We understand that it occurred off-campus and is currently under investigation by the Houston Police Department. We are awaiting further information.”
The university emphasized its commitment to supporting McKissic’s family and the campus community through the difficult time. “We have extended condolences and support to the family as they navigate this unimaginable loss,” the statement continued. “In times of grief, leaning on one another can make a meaningful difference. Please take care of yourselves and each other — and reach out if you need support.”
McKissic, known affectionately as Sage, was a Strategic Communications and Advertising junior. She was an active member of the 2025 UH Orientation team, helping to welcome and guide incoming students, and also worked on campus as a front desk assistant, the Daily Cougar, the university’s student newspaper, reported.
A relative of McKissic told KHOU 11 that her death was a “total shock” to the family. They described her as a bright, dedicated student who had always been involved in church and school activities, noting that she had been a “friend to many” throughout her life. The family’s grief is compounded by the suddenness of her disappearance and the uncertainty surrounding the events that led to her death.
The Houston Police Department confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Officers continue to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses as part of their efforts to understand what happened in the days leading up to McKissic’s death.
The tragedy has resonated across the University of Houston campus and beyond. Students, faculty, and friends have shared condolences on social media, expressing shock and sorrow over the loss of a young woman described as both academically accomplished and deeply engaged in her community. Many have highlighted her warmth, kindness, and the positive influence she had on those around her.
McKissic’s death also underscores broader concerns about safety for young adults in urban environments. While authorities have yet to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, her passing is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of students who live off-campus and navigate the challenges of city life.As the Houston community comes to terms with this devastating loss, the University of Houston continues to offer counseling and support services to students and staff affected by the news. Meanwhile, the McKissic family, friends, and classmates await answers from law enforcement as the investigation into her untimely death continues.
