AUSTIN, Texas – Investigators gathered evidence on the University of Texas campus in Austin late into the night after the body of a female was found in a creek near the school's alumni center.

The discovery was made around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday. The news of what detectives call a homicide was delivered to students through an on-campus alert an hour later.

"This is a tragic day for every student who walks across our beautiful campus and expects to be safe," UT president Gregory Fenves said.

What is unknown at this point is who the female was and exactly how she died, but investigators said she was in her 20s. Authorities were waiting to notify next of kin before releasing her identity.

It's also not known if the victim was a student, faculty member, or not affiliated with the university. But the homicide has authorities warning students about their safety on campus.

"Don't walk distracted by your phone or earbuds," said Capt. Don Verett, of the UT Police Department. "Be aware of your surroundings at all times."

While Tuesday's discovery was shocking to students, faculty, and alumni alike, it didn't disrupt classes or other scheduled events. But the school's president is urging caution while investigators sort out the details of this homicide.

"Our top priority is for the safety of our students, our faculty and staff and visitors who come to the campus every day," Fenves said.

Fenves also ordered an extra 50 police officers to patrol campus on foot and bicycle until further notice.