Introduction to the Incident
A person was wounded when shots were fired at Illinois State University’s Bone Student Center on Sunday night, university officials said. School officials urged students to avoid the area near the student center, as well as the intersection of University and Locust streets, according to emergency alerts issued by the school. One person was reported wounded.
Response and Investigation
A shelter-in-place order was issued, and the student center was closed Sunday night, according to an emergency alert at 9:22 p.m. The university tweeted, "ISU Emergency Alert: Bone is closed. Police continue to investigate. No shelter in place order for ISU campus. Email ISUPolice@ilstu.edu with eyewitness info."
Emergency Alerts and Warnings
“There is the potential of an immediate threat,” an 8:04 p.m. ISU emergency alert said. An emergency alert was first issued by the school at 7:55 p.m. about the shots fired, and subsequent messages from the university stated that a suspect — described as a man wearing all black clothing with an afro hair style — was potentially “armed/dangerous” and had fled south from University and College streets. The school urged anyone with information to reach out to ISUPolice@ilstu.edu.
Suspect Description and Search
The university provided a detailed description of the suspect, tweeting, "ISU Emergency Alert: Stay away from Bone and near University/Locust Streets. Police are looking for slender black male 5’10”, black afro hair style, wearing all black. Last seen running south from University and College Streets." This information was crucial for students and staff to be aware of the potential danger and to assist in the search.
Conclusion
The incident at Illinois State University highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for swift action in the face of potential threats. The university’s response, including the issuance of timely emergency alerts and the provision of detailed suspect descriptions, demonstrates a commitment to student safety. As the investigation continues, it is essential for the community to remain vigilant and to cooperate with law enforcement.
FAQs
- Q: What happened at Illinois State University?
A: Shots were fired at the Bone Student Center, resulting in one person being wounded. - Q: Was a shelter-in-place order issued?
A: Yes, a shelter-in-place order was issued, but it was later lifted for the campus. - Q: Can you describe the suspect?
A: The suspect is described as a slender black male, 5’10” with a black afro hair style, wearing all black. - Q: What should I do if I have information?
A: You should email ISUPolice@ilstu.edu with any eyewitness information. - Q: Is the student center open?
A: The Bone Student Center was closed following the incident, but the status may change as the situation is updated.
