In 2008, Auburn freshman Lauren Burk's murder shocked the University, the town and every single resident. Now, six years later, Burk's parents have filed a claim with the University, based on their belief that their daughter would still be alive if Auburn had a campus police department at the time, according to WSB-TV.
Courtney Lockhart was convicted for the kidnapping and brutal murder of Burk, and sentenced to death. According to Auburn police, Lockhart attempted to rob Burk while she was walking alone from a parking lot on campus.
Investigators say Lockhart then forced Burk into the vehicle, while making her undress. Burk jumped from the moving vehicle and was then shot in the chest. Burk was found on the Alabama Highway and died later at the East Alabama Medical Center.
Burk was a graduate of Walton High School in Marietta, Ga. and a member of the Delta Gamma sorority on campus. Burk was studying graphic design and art.
Auburn University established the Lauren Burk Foundation, which awards a scholarship to incoming students majoring in graphic design. Those from Cobb County, Ga., where Burk's home town is located, receive preference.
Attempts to reach the Lauren Burk Foundation were unsuccessful.
WSB-TV reports that due to immunity laws, Auburn University cannot be sued. Lauren's parents, Jim Burk and Viviane Guerschon, filed a claim with Alabama's Board of Adjustment against the University. The board has the ability to use state money to pay for the claim, which is in the amount of $1 million.
Jim Burk, Lauren's father, told WSB-TV in Atlanta the claim is not just about the money, but so another family would not have to go through what his family suffered.
Burk's parents believe that if Auburn still had a campus police department, it would have saved their daughter's life.
According to WSB-TV, Auburn has not had a campus police department for at least 10 years. When Auburn City police took over patrols, the University shut down the campus program to save money.
"Auburn University is not aware of any new claims," said Mike Clardy, director of university communications and media relations at Auburn. "It is University policy not to comment on matters of pending investigation."
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