University News
Finals Continue at WIU; Timely Warning: Unconfirmed Threat Found in Library Elevator
December 17, 2008
EDITOR'S NOTE: 11 a.m. media conference in the University Union Capitol Rooms.
MACOMB, IL (8:30 a.m.) - - Western Illinois University's Office of Public Safety (OPS) is investigating an unconfirmed threatening note that was found in an elevator at approximately 1:25 a.m. this morning in the Malpass Library.
An investigation is ongoing and extra police presence on campus has been heightened with support from city, county and state law enforcement. Western remains open and final exams continue as scheduled.
The hand-written note, which read, on one side: "You think you stopped the massacre Never can be sure. Tomorrow;" and on the other side: "Bang;" was discovered by a library student worker. OPS is viewing library security videotapes.
The campus is asked to be on heightened alert, take notice of any suspicious behavior, and report it to the Office of Public Safety immediately by calling 9-1-1 from any campus phone or 298-1949. There are also 51 emergency callboxes located throughout campus.
In addition to the extra law enforcement in cars and walking through campus buildings, residence halls and dining areas have been secured.
"We are investigating this incident, and we will prosecute the individual responsible to the fullest extent of the law," said WIU President Goldfarb.
If students wish to speak to a mental health counselor for help in coping with the stress of this incident, they may call the University Counseling Center at (309) 298-2453.
Individuals with information about the anonymous threat should contact the WIU Office of Public Safety (OPS) at (309) 298-1949 or Western's Stop the Threat Fund, which includes a $1,000 and an additional $500 donated by President and Mrs. Goldfarb.
A timely warning alert has been issued using Western's Emergency Alert System.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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