Chico State University and Broader Community Grieve the Tragic Loss of 21-Year-Old Student Athena Marie Passidakis Following Abduction and Murder-Suicide Involving Suspect Alvin Wilson
CHICO, CA – The community at California State University, Chico is reeling from the tragic death of one of its own, Athena Marie Passidakis, a 21-year-old student whose life was cut short in a horrific kidnapping that ended in a murder-suicide earlier this week. The university released a formal statement expressing grief, support for those affected, and a commitment to honoring Athena’s memory.
The devastating incident unfolded earlier this week when Athena was abducted by Alvin Wilson, a man believed to have had a personal connection to her. The case ended in tragedy following a pursuit that concluded with Wilson fatally shooting Athena before turning the weapon on himself.
A University in Mourning
In a heartfelt statement shared on Friday, Chico State University acknowledged the profound impact Athena’s death has had on the campus community:
“It is with the deepest sorrow that we confirm the loss of Athena Marie Passidakis, a valued member of our Wildcat family. Athena was a bright, compassionate, and deeply loved student who brought joy to those around her. Her tragic and senseless death has left us heartbroken and grieving. We extend our sincerest condolences to her family, friends, classmates, and all who knew and loved her.”
The statement also emphasized that the university is offering mental health support to students, faculty, and staff through Counseling and Wellness Services, and they encouraged anyone in distress to seek assistance.
The Incident
Authorities say the abduction occurred on April 2, 2025, in what has now been confirmed as a domestic violence-related incident. Athena, a psychology major and aspiring counselor, was allegedly taken against her will by 28-year-old Alvin Wilson. Law enforcement agencies across Northern California quickly mobilized after an AMBER Alert was issued.
After a multi-county search and high-speed pursuit, the incident reached a tragic end near Redding, California, when the vehicle stopped along a remote stretch of highway. Despite efforts by law enforcement to negotiate a peaceful resolution, Wilson fatally shot Athena and then took his own life before officers could intervene.
Remembering Athena Passidakis
Athena, originally from Santa Rosa, was known by friends and classmates for her warm heart, strong sense of empathy, and commitment to helping others. A junior at Chico State, she had dreams of becoming a licensed therapist to support trauma survivors—work inspired by her volunteer experiences and personal drive to make the world a safer, more compassionate place.
“She always made people feel seen and heard,” said Emily Tran, a close friend and fellow student. “Athena had a gift for making you feel like you mattered. She wanted to heal the world, one person at a time.”
Her professors echoed that sentiment, describing Athena as deeply engaged, intellectually curious, and someone who brought passion and insight to her coursework.
“She was a light in our department,” said Dr. Michael Reiner, chair of the Psychology Department. “Her loss is not only felt by her classmates but by our faculty and staff, who had the privilege of witnessing her growth and dedication firsthand.”
Campus Response and Safety Measures
The tragedy has raised broader concerns about student safety, intimate partner violence, and campus response protocols. Chico State officials have stated that while Athena’s case involved an off-campus event, they are committed to reviewing their current support systems for students affected by domestic violence and stalking.
In addition to grief counseling services, the university is planning a campus-wide vigil next week to honor Athena’s life. The event will be open to students, faculty, and members of the public.
“We will come together to mourn, to remember, and to stand united in the face of this heartbreaking loss,” said University President Dr. Steve Perez. “Athena’s memory will not be defined by how her life ended, but by the powerful legacy of compassion, kindness, and hope that she left behind.”
A Call for Awareness and Action
Athena’s family has also issued a public statement through a local news outlet, asking for privacy as they process their grief. They hope that her story will raise awareness of the very real dangers posed by domestic violence and coercive control.
“She deserved to live out her dreams, to help people, to build a future full of love and purpose,” said her older brother, Lucas Passidakis. “No family should have to go through what we’re going through. We want people to recognize the signs and speak up if they or someone they love is in danger.”
Athena’s friends have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the family’s memorial arrangements and to create a scholarship fund in her name for students studying psychology and counseling.
Final Thoughts
The death of Athena Marie Passidakis is an unimaginable tragedy, one that has shaken Chico State and the broader community. But as her classmates, faculty, and family members continue to speak her name and share her story, her legacy lives on—not in the tragedy that ended her life, but in the beauty, empathy, and strength she embodied every single day.
The university will release further details on the vigil and scholarship fund in the coming days.