Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student, was killed after going for a run on February 22.

Her mother, Allyson Phillips, grew increasingly concerned when Riley stopped responding to calls and texts.

Surveillance footage and phone data showed Riley encountered Jose Ibarra on a wooded trail at the University of Georgia, where prosecutors say Ibarra killed her after a struggle.

Riley’s heart stopped at 9:28 a.m., shortly after her call to her mother. Ibarra, charged with murder, waived his right to a jury trial.

The case has drawn attention due to Ibarra’s immigration status, as he entered the U.S. illegally in 2022, the Associated Press has reported.

Prosecutors argue Ibarra killed Riley after she resisted a sexual assault, while the defense claims insufficient evidence to prove his guilt.

Written by B.C. Begley