By Dan Modlin/AP
Bowling Green, KY – The mother and aunt of murder victim Katie Autry have
filed suit against Western Kentucky University, Pi Kappa
Alpha fraternity, the WKU Student Life Foundation, and
three resident assistants. The lawsuit claims the university
and other named defendants failed to enforce policies
or provide adequate security.
Katie Autry was assaulted and burned in her residence
hall room on May fourth. She died three days later at a
hospital in Nashville. Two suspects who are not students---
Lucas Goodrum and Stephen Soules-- have been indicted
in the murder.
Officials at Western Kentucky University say they are
prepared to vigorously defend the civil suit. A statement
released by the institution expresses confidence that
"neither its staff nor its policies played a role" in the
tragic event.