Dr. Hueytzen J. Wu, a mathematics professor at Texas A&M University – Kingsville (TAMU-K) went missing on Oct. 1 and his body was found a week later on Oct. 7. His white Nissan was found abandoned at Boca Chica Beach, near Space X. It is unclear if the vehicle crashed or if he left the car, however Kingsville Police reported that they do not suspect foul play. They were more inclined to say that his passing was a result of his diabetic condition, as his symptoms and confused demeanor were consistent with a diabetic episode.

Family members reported him missing when they tried contacting him. With his wife out of town, his neighbors reported seeing him around approximately 4:45 p.m. that same Thursday. He also did not report into work at the university on Friday or Monday.

Before disappearing, he withdrew a large sum of money and was seen at a convenience store in the area of Benavides and Hebbronville multiple times in the same day. Witnesses on social media stated that he appeared dazed and not sure of what he was doing or where he was going.

Dr. Wu was a beloved professor, dedicating 40 of his 75 years to teaching. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas and his research consisted of functional analysis and general topology. He authored numerous papers, including one ranked in the top 10 of Science Direct’s Top 25 Hottest Articles in 2006 and another in the top 20 in 2008. He also solved an open question from 1938 in a paper he wrote in 2008. His students affectionately referred to his class as the “Wu Train” on Rate My Professor. His former students’ Rate My Professor postings have been taken down since his passing, but his memory and teachings live on.

A candlelight vigil was held on Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. by the TAMU-K Student Government Association for faculty, staff and students to honor Dr. Wu. As part of the Texas A&M family, we at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi send our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Wu’s family and those who knew him. May he rest in peace.