Missing University of Texas at Dallas student found dead under DART rail tracks, police say

Andrew Zhou Li, a 20-year-old University of Texas at Dallas student who disappeared in late February, was found dead under DART rail tracks in Richardson early Saturday morning, authorities said.

After a week-long search, Richardson Police officers found Li's body under the rail tracks in the 3200 block of Routh Creek Parkway around 7:38 a.m.

UT Dallas Police said the student was not found on campus, and they do not believe his death is a threat to the campus community.

The Richardson Police Department said detectives and the Collin County Medical Examiner's Officer are still investigating Li's death, and they are waiting for toxicology results to determine the official cause of death.

Li was last seen on Saturday, Feb. 24. at his on-campus apartment around 6 p.m. At his disappearance, officials said Li was wearing round brown wire-framed glasses and possibly had a ball cap on.

UT Dallas Police released a statement on Facebook, giving their condolences to Li’s loved ones.

“We all grieve with Andrew’s family and friends at this sorrowful outcome. We offer our sincere condolences to all who knew him,” officials said.

The university said it will host an annual Comets Remember Ceremony on March. 19 to honor all the UT Dallas students who died during the academic school year.

Anyone who is seeking help is encouraged to use the university’s resources. Students can make appointments with the Student Counseling Center and have 24/7 access to counseling through UTDTALK (972-883-8255) and TimelyCare.

Faculty members and staff can use the Employee Assistance Program that offers counseling services, and those on the UT SELECT Medical Plan can access more mental health benefits.