Multiple universities in Delaware and Maryland initiated evacuations and canceled classes on Tuesday following a series of bomb threats. Delaware State University (DSU) and the University of Delaware (UD) were among the institutions directly impacted, prompting swift responses from campus police and state authorities.
The incidents led to significant disruption across several campuses, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and security in academic environments. Authorities worked throughout the day to investigate the threats and ensure the well-being of students and staff.
Key Takeaways
- Delaware State University and University of Delaware evacuated buildings due to bomb threats.
- Classes were canceled for the remainder of Tuesday at DSU.
- Maryland's Morgan State University and Towson University also reported similar threats.
- Authorities later cleared campuses, deeming threats unfounded.
- Governor Matt Meyer condemned the threats and urged adherence to official guidance.
Delaware State University Response to Threat
Delaware State University received a bomb threat just before 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 30. The university immediately announced an evacuation of academic buildings and canceled all classes for the rest of the day.
DSU officials acted with considerable caution. All employees, except for essential personnel, were directed to leave the campus. University police began working with state and federal authorities to investigate the credibility of the threat.
Quick Facts: DSU Evacuation
- Threat Received: Approximately 10:55 AM EDT
- Date: Tuesday, September 30
- Action Taken: Academic buildings evacuated, all classes canceled
- Personnel Impacted: All non-essential employees sent home
By approximately 4:30 PM on Tuesday, DSU issued an updated statement confirming that the campus had been cleared. The statement read,
“Delaware State University police, in coordination with local, state and federal authorities, have cleared campus buildings following a bomb threat that was received just before 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday. Campus will reopen as scheduled on Wednesday.”This announcement reassured the university community that normal operations would resume the following day.
University of Delaware Also Faces Threat
The University of Delaware (UD) also reported a potential threat on its campus on Tuesday. This led to the evacuation of some buildings as a precautionary measure. Campus police at UD initiated an immediate response to investigate the reported incident.
UD police collaborated with other nearby law enforcement agencies to assist in the investigation. This joint effort aimed to quickly assess the situation and ensure the safety of everyone on campus.
Background: Campus Security
Universities across the United States regularly review and update their emergency protocols. Bomb threats, though often unfounded, require a full and immediate response to protect large populations of students and staff. These incidents test communication systems and coordination between campus security and external law enforcement.
Just after 3:30 PM, a UD spokesperson confirmed that university police had issued an all-clear. They stated that there was no active threat to campus safety. Students and staff received notification that normal activities could resume around the Central Green area.
Buildings such as Gore Hall, Sharp Laboratory, and Mitchell Hall, which had been evacuated for safety, were declared safe for re-entry. The University of Delaware emphasized its commitment to community safety.
"The University of Delaware prioritizes the safety of its community members and campus," a statement from UD to WBOC read. "On Tuesday morning, the University received information about a reported explosive device in a building on the Newark Campus. UD Police took action immediately, responding to the area to begin investigating this reported incident, evacuating multiple buildings, and calling in support from other nearby law enforcement agencies to assist in the investigation. The result of the investigation rendered the report to be unfounded."
UD police also noted that multiple institutions regionally and nationally had received similar reports of potential safety threats. This indicated a wider pattern of incidents impacting educational facilities.
The university spokesperson added, "The University is grateful to the members of our UD community for their patience and cooperation and for taking seriously this potential incident. As a reminder: If you see something, say something. UD Police encourages members of the University community to report any suspicious behavior." This message reinforced the importance of community vigilance.
State and Regional Impact
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer acknowledged the threats targeting both Delaware State University and the University of Delaware. He condemned the actions and highlighted the importance of safety.
"There is no place for violence in our state. We’re monitoring the ongoing situations at University of Delaware and Delaware State University, and we’re in close contact with the Delaware State Police and local authorities," Governor Meyer stated. "Please follow guidance from local officials, as we work to keep students safe and our campuses secure."
The governor's remarks underscored the seriousness of the threats and the coordinated effort among various agencies to manage the situation.
Beyond Delaware, universities in neighboring Maryland also reported similar incidents on the same day. Morgan State University announced it had received a threat. Towson University also confirmed receiving a threat.
Regional Threats Overview
- Delaware: Delaware State University, University of Delaware
- Maryland: Morgan State University, Towson University
- Nature: Bomb threats, leading to evacuations and class cancellations.
These widespread threats suggest a coordinated effort or a series of copycat incidents. Law enforcement agencies in both states are likely sharing information to determine any connections between the various threats.
The events of Tuesday serve as a stark reminder of the challenges universities face in maintaining security while fostering open academic environments. The rapid response from university administrations and law enforcement was crucial in ensuring no harm came to students or staff.
Further investigations will likely examine the source of these threats and whether they are linked to any specific groups or individuals. The focus remains on maintaining campus safety and preventing future disruptions.
