An Ohio university announced it would cancel campus activities on Sunday and increase the number of police officers on campus after receiving shooting threats.
“Wittenberg University is currently taking extreme precautions after receiving an email threatening a possible active shooter incident on campus tomorrow, Sunday, September 15, 2024. The message was targeted at Haitian members of our community,” the Springfield-based university said in a warning to students.
Wittenberg police said in a statement that they are working with the Springfield Police Department and the FBI in investigating the shooting threats.
Students, faculty and staff are urged to remain aware and vigilant of their surroundings, and anyone on or near campus should be prepared for further instructions and possible lockdowns.
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Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio, announced it would halt activities and increase police presence on campus following threats aimed at Haitians. (Wittenberg University)
All campus activities scheduled for Sunday have been canceled.
“University officials are aware of an increased number of threats against local government, businesses and schools in the city of Springfield over the past week,” the university said. “We are taking these threats seriously and will keep the campus updated as the situation becomes more known.”
The university said it was taking “extreme precautions” after receiving an email on Sunday threatening to carry out a shooting against members of the Haitian community on campus. (iStock)
The warning came as former President Trump and his running mate, Republican Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio, drew national attention to Springfield and the Haitian immigrants who live there.
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In its alert, the university offered several safety tips for students and those visiting campus.
“Please remain aware of your surroundings at all times when walking around campus and in the community. Keep your room door closed and locked if you are sleeping or studying in your room. If you notice any unusual behavior or suspicious people, including when outside your dorm or housing, please report them to campus police immediately. Be wary of strangers who may be attending dorm gatherings and take steps to address their presence by calling Wittenberg Police to respond. Do not allow others to 'tailgate' behind you and gain access to secured buildings or spaces,” the notice read.
It also said, “Threats against the campus community will not be tolerated and we encourage you to report any crimes to police.”
Springfield police plan to increase patrols on campus Sunday. (iStock)
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If you notice any suspicious activity, please contact the Wittenberg Police Department immediately at the emergency number at 937-327-6363. For non-emergencies, please call 937-327-6231.
Springfield, a city of about 60,000 people, has seen its Haitian population grow in recent years, and the city says Haitians are in the US legally under a federal program that allows them temporary residence.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
