Wittenberg University in Ohio has canceled campus activities and increased campus police presence after receiving a shooting threat targeting Haitian members of the community on Sunday, September 15, 2024. The university is cooperating with local law enforcement and the FBI to investigate the threat, and students, faculty, and staff have been urged to be cautious and prepared for potential lockdowns or additional instructions while on campus.
All campus activities scheduled for Sunday have been canceled as a precautionary measure due to the threatening email. The university administration is taking the threat seriously, especially in light of recent threats in the city of Springfield targeting local government, businesses, and schools. The alert from the university comes amid national attention on Springfield and its Haitian migrants, drawing statements from prominent figures such as former President Trump and Senator JD Vance.
The university has provided safety tips for students and visitors to the campus, emphasizing the importance of being aware of their surroundings and promptly reporting any suspicious activities or individuals to campus police. The notice also highlights the need for vigilance in securing living spaces and not letting unauthorized individuals tailgate into secured buildings or spaces. Additionally, the community is encouraged to report any crimes or suspicious activities to law enforcement, and to contact the Wittenberg Police Division immediately in case of any suspicious activity.
Springfield, a city with a population of around 60,000, has seen an increase in its Haitian population in recent years. The Haitian migrants in Springfield are legally in the country under a federal program that allows them to be there temporarily. The university’s alert and increased security measures reflect the seriousness with which they are taking the threat and their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of their community. The cooperation with local and federal authorities demonstrates the collaborative effort to investigate and address the threat effectively.
The university’s response to the shooting threat highlights the importance of proactive safety measures in educational institutions, especially in the current environment of heightened security concerns. By canceling campus activities and increasing police presence, Wittenberg University is prioritizing the safety and well-being of its students, faculty, and staff. The alert serves as a reminder for everyone to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activities, and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure a safe and secure environment on campus.
As the investigation into the shooting threat continues, the university remains committed to providing updates to the campus community as new information becomes available. The solidarity and support within the community, along with the cooperation with law enforcement agencies, underscore the importance of a united approach in addressing security threats and ensuring the safety of all individuals on campus. The response to the threat at Wittenberg University serves as a proactive and effective example of crisis management in the face of potential security risks.
