The University of Oregon takes the events that occurred yesterday seriously. In an effort to keep the campus community informed, we are providing additional information about the incident and important safety tips.
These types of events are extremely rare for our campus community, but they can be unsettling. Members of our community who feel unease or anxiety as a result of this incident can seek support through our campus resources, Counseling Services for students and the UO’s Employee Assistance Program for faculty and staff.
The UO Police Department is increasing its presence and patrols on campus to ensure our community members feel safe, understanding this was an isolated incident. The UOPD also is evaluating whether there are additional options to further enhance the safety and security of our community.
The UOPD, working with local law enforcement, is investigating all aspects of this case. While we are limited in what we can disclose because of the ongoing investigation, we can provide some additional information on yesterday’s event:
- There were no signs of forced entry into the William Knight Law Center.
- All door locks and card reader functions in the law school have been tested and are working properly.
- All door locks and card reader functions in every residence hall have been tested and are working properly.
- The victims, one student and their guest, were outside of Hamilton Hall when they were approached by the suspect who had a gun in his hand. Out of fear for their safety, the student allowed the suspect back into the residence hall.
Additional updates, when available, will be posted on the UO Alerts blog.
SAFETY TIPS FROM UOPD
No action or inaction by a crime survivor makes that person responsible for his or her victimization. Perpetrators are responsible for crimes and their effects. The following suggestions may help reduce the possibility of experiencing such a crime or may improve opportunities to receive prompt assistance.
New:
- We have scheduled an active threat training for Wednesday, November 10, to further educate the campus community on how to respond to campus threats. Click here to register.
- On November 7, clocks will “fall back” one hour, resulting in earlier nightfall. Please review the safety resources listed below for traveling after dark.
- Self-defense classes can prepare people to deter or escape an assault and have benefits for improved awareness and confidence. UOPD is hosting drop-in self-defense classes for UO students on November 8 and 9.
- Dean of Students staff will be available for drop-in support at the Dean of Students Office in 164 Oregon Hall.
Ongoing Awareness:
- Communities are safest when members look out for each other: report any suspicious activity or unauthorized strangers immediately.
- Report criminal activity (such as a break-in or intruder, robbery, or assault) immediately to 9-1-1, or for non-emergency situations on campus, to UOPD at 541-346-2919.
- In secured buildings (including laboratory and research spaces and residence halls), do not let in strangers, do not allow strangers to enter behind you as a courtesy, do not prop open doors, and do not lend out keys. Only open the front door of a secured building or residence to someone you know and trust.
- Immediately report any malfunctioning or broken doors or windows in UO buildings to CPFM Work Control (541-346-2319 – workcontrolcenter@uoregon.edu) or to maintenance in UO Housing (541-346-5263), and insist the problem be corrected as soon as possible.
- Always be alert when walking at night and try to stay in well-lit areas. The UO provides an online map to help students navigate by the best-lit route around campus. The map also shows the approximately 60 emergency phones (e-phone or call boxes) that are located across campus.
- When possible, carry a well-charged cell phone with emergency numbers pre-programmed.
- Duck Rides is the primary nighttime transportation services for students, staff and faculty at the UO. The service is free and peer-to-peer, with students driving students. It runs seven days a week, 6 p.m. to midnight. Call 541-346-7433 or email duckrides@uoregon.edu to make a reservation.
- UOPD is available to provide free on-campus escorts if you are unable to find another shuttle, ride, or taxi: 541-346-2919 and press 1.
- Student survivors of crime may find support and resource options at uoregon.edu, or call the 24-hour SAFE hotline at 541-346-SAFE (7233)
- University Counseling & Testing Center is open until 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and offers 24-hour crisis support via phone; 541-346-3227.
- Duck Nest in EMU provides a place for students to practice self-care and life-balance. It is staffed by Peer Wellness Advocates.
- Download the UO Mobile App for easy access to safety resources, safe ride options, and maps.
