Former Hewitt-Trussville band director reportedly commits suicide after allegations of relationship with former student

A former band director at Hewitt-Trussville High School died by suicide Friday, according to multiple reports.

The death came just hours after a former Florida student came forward with allegations against Guzman.

Jackie Rodriquez claimed she was groomed by Guzman when she was in high school. She said the sexual relationship continued until she went to college, where Guzman co-signed her loan to the University of Alabama.

Rodriquez shared photos of herself with Guzman and notes he gave her.

“I felt completely stripped of my identity until that summer when I returned home to Miami, things finally clicked,” she wrote. “I ended the cycle of abuse and took control of my life. With this, I seek protection from other women who have been victims.

At the time of his death, Guzman was working at Texas A&M University-Commerce.

Following Rodriquez's Facebook post, several other former students came forward with allegations. A GoFundMe account has been set up to help him fight for justice.

Rodriquez, now a band director herself, said she hopes this information will lead to change in the industry. Following news of the suicide, she asked others to be sensitive to the situation.

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