Letter to the Campus Community: Off-Campus Shooting

University News

Letter to the Campus Community: Off-Campus Shooting

March 25, 2023

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Dear students, faculty, staff, and campus community members,

I am heartbroken, shocked, and saddened to learn of the senseless act of gun violence that occurred off campus in the early morning hours today. My thoughts are with all of our students, families, and campus community members who are affected by this incident.

We are a tight-knit community, and this affects all of us deeply.

I thank all local law enforcement officers and emergency personnel for the immediate and impactful response to the situation. I commend McDonough District Hospital for all prompt and urgent care that was administered.

I want to reiterate that this incident is believed to be an isolated incident by law enforcement authorities and is being investigated.

Out of respect for our students, the victims, and their families, we have canceled all University Athletics events for the weekend. Several other events have also been canceled on campus.

A few events are still scheduled to proceed. Rockython, the annual dance marathon for the kids, which raises funds for Children's Miracle Network (CMN) hospitals, St. Louis Children's Hospital and SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Miracle Children, will be held. Children who have, or are currently being treated, at CMN hospitals will be in attendance, along with their families, and this will be a safe place for students who choose to cope with the tragic incident at an uplifting event with their peers.

Western Illinois University is committed to providing a secure and welcoming campus environment. As part of that, the Western Illinois University Office of Public Safety (OPS) provides a 24/7 presence on campus. Individuals who see or hear anything should contact the OPS immediately at (309) 298-1949 or by dialing 9-1-1. Students who need mental health assistance can contact the University Counseling Center at (309) 298-2453. Employees seeking assistance can contact the Employee Assistance Program at (866) 659-3848.

We strive to maintain our campus as a safe place for learning, and for our students and employees who live and work here.

Sincerely,
Guiyou Huang