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$10K Reward Offered For Info In EMU Student's Death

YPSILANTI (WWJ/AP) - A Monroe family is hoping a $10,000 reward will spur information in the murder of Julia Niswender -- a 23-year-old Eastern Michigan University student whose body was found in December.

Niswender was a Monroe native and an undergraduate at the Ypsilanti school. Her body was found in her bedroom Dec. 11 at the Peninsular Place Apartments on Huron River Drive, located across the street from the campus police station. Investigators haven't yet determined how Niswender died, although they say an investigation remains active and ongoing.

Niswender's family told AnnArbor.com that the reward is being offered by private investigators at Duvall Group Investigations PLLC.

"The owner, Ryan, has been a family friend for years. We have not hired his services. We are confident that the (Ypsilanti) Police Department will find justice for Julia and my family," Kim Turnquist, Niswender's mother, said.

Niswender's twin sister Jennifer said it's hard not knowing what happened to her best friend.

"We are just really hoping that this helps spread the word and helps catch whoever did this as soon as possible," she said.

Anyone who might have information is asked to contact Ypsilanti police at 734-482-9878 or Crime Stopper at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.

A website has been established to provide the latest updates on the investigation into Niswender's death, as well as 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.

TM and © Copyright 2013 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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