Plano East Senior High School students commit suicide within hours of each other

PLANO, Texas - Police in Murphy are investigating the deaths of two young women who were friends and students at Plano East Senior High School.

Relatives called 911 after finding the body of Ritu Sachdeva on Saturday in her home. Several hours later the remains of Hillary Kate Kuizon were found by Murphy officers in a wooded area just south of Kimbrough Stadium.

Investigators believe both 17-year-old girls committed suicide.

"Both deaths occurred within hours of each other under circumstances that have led investigators to presume they were both self-inflicted. No motives have been identified, and no evidence of foul play has so far been detected,” the Murphy Police Department said in a statement.

Rumors have begun circulating about a possible suicide pact. Investigators are talking to relatives to determine if there is any connection between the two deaths.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the two families," said Chief Arthur Cohen.  "We are treating these two cases with the care and compassion they deserve, and will continue to seek answers for the families."

Friends of the girls told FOX 4 neither one showed any outward signs of being depressed. They were described as bubbly and energetic. They were liked by many.

Plano ISD officials are helping with the case. Flags flew at half-staff at the school on Monday and 20 counselors were on campus for grieving students and faculty.

"A lot of people really sad and stuff," said junior Marwan Kamal. "They just couldn't accept it that much."

Murphy police said Monday night there were no new developments in the cases.