Student, sorority member at University of Minnesota goes missing at bar close

The Minneapolis Police Department is seeking the public's help in locating missing University of Minnesota student Jennifer Houle, 22, who was last seen at Blarney Bar in Dinkytown sometime between 1 and 2 a.m. on March 27.

Houle is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, 140 pounds, with long blond hair. She was last seen wearing a black leather  jacket, green blouse, black leggings, and boots.

According to the Minneapolis Police Department, a purse belonging to Houle was found on the 1100 block of 4th St., just three blocks away from where she was last seen.

She is a senior at the school and also a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority on campus.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call 9-1-1 or send a text to 847 411 (tip 411), enter MPD and the tip or call the tipline at 612-692-TIPS (8477). All texts are anonymous. The CCN is 15-105689.

 

U of M statement

The U of M today released this statement about Houle's disappearance on behalf of Danita Brown Young, Ph.D., vice provost for student affairs and dean of students:

The University of Minnesota is working with local law enforcement to help find Jennifer Houle, a Carlson School of Management student and Pi Beta Phi sorority member, who has been missing since Friday, March 27.

During this time of need, we want to offer support and counseling to any University members who need it. Students are encouraged to contact Boynton Health Service or University Counseling & Consulting Services if they need assistance.

Lastly, we ask that the public respect the privacy of Ms. Houle's friends, family and sorority sisters as the situation continues to evolve. Please give them the space they need to process this challenging event.

We remain hopeful that Ms. Houle will be found safe and sound, and urge anyone with information about her whereabouts to call 9-1-1 or send a text to 847 411 (tip 411), enter MPD and the tip or call the Minneapolis Police tipline at 612-692-TIPS (8477). All texts are anonymous. The case number is 15-105689.

-- Aaron Rupar contributed to this report