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Student Found Dead Near Eastern Michigan University

YPSILANTI (WWJ) - An investigation is underway in Washtenaw County after the body of a college student was found near Eastern Michigan University.

Police say 23-year-old Julia Catherine Niswender was found dead around 9:15 p.m. Tuesday at Peninsular Place Apartments on Huron River Drive, just north of the school's campus in Ypsilanti.

Although they wouldn't discuss the circumstances surrounding Niswender's death, police are calling it an apparent homicide.

According to her Facebook page, Niswender was a 2008 graduate of Monroe High School who was in her final year at EMU studying electronic media and film. She has a twin sister, Jennifer, who recently graduated from EMU. Those closest to Niswender describe her as a "very social" person who was always with her friends.

Police were called to Julia's apartment after a suite-mate reported not having seen her for several days.

University officials said Wednesday that EMU Police Department is working closely with Ypsilanti Police on the case.  At this time investigators have no information about a possible suspect.

Ypsilanti police are asking that anyone who might have information concerning this to contact Det/Sgt T.C. Eberts at 734-482-9878 or Crime Stopper at 1-800- SPEAKUP.

A website has been established to provide the latest updates on the student death and campus safety and security information.  Counseling is available for students and others in the EMU family. Those interested may contact Counseling and Psychological Services at 734-487-1118.

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