UPDATE: The Orleans Parish Coroner's Office told WWL-TV that Jones was shot and killed before his body ended up in the lake. 

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NEW ORLEANS - A missing Southern University student was found dead in Lake Pontchartrain on Thursday afternoon after being missing for nearly two weeks. 

The family of 21-year-old Marquise Jones confirmed the identity of the body when it was pulled from the lake by Jefferson Parish deputies. 

Jones was first reported as missing in late February, and was last seen leaving a house party. On March 5, his car was discovered parked in front of an abandoned New Orleans East apartment.

The New Orleans Police Department is conducting the investigation. Foul play has not been ruled out.

On Thursday night, Southern University released a statement in regards to the 21-year-old's untimely death, stating, "We are deeply saddened to hear the news about the loss of our Jaguar, Marquise Jones." 

This article will be updated as authorities continue to investigate the student's death.