Update on the Recent Incident on the Tucson Campus

Dear students and colleagues,

Yesterday’s incident at the Main Library cast a shadow over our excitement as we prepare for the start of the new academic year. 

This was a difficult moment for our community, especially for those directly affected. I am grateful to the members of our campus community, in particular faculty and staff of the University Libraries, as well as the University of Arizona Police Department, the Office of Public Safety, first responders and the university’s Crisis Mobile Team for their swift action. The female victim was transported to a local hospital, where she is listed in stable condition. We wish her a  full recovery and extend our heartfelt thoughts to her family and loved ones.

UAPD arrested a juvenile male suspect yesterday. The victim and the suspect are not affiliated with the university, and their identities are being withheld due to their status as minors. The investigation continues and there is no ongoing threat to the campus community.

We have strong Campus Health Services to support our students with an array of health services, including mental health support. Students, visit Campus Health's Counseling & Psych Services (CAPS) website for more information. To schedule an appointment, you can call 520-621-3334, schedule online or drop in at one of CAPS locations during business hours.

HR Life & Work Connections offers free and confidential Employee Assistance Counseling available 24/7 through ComPsych to faculty and staff, their dependents and members of their household. Visit the website for information or call 855-511-9855 (TTY: 800-697-0353).

As a reminder, to be automatically registered to receive UAlert emergency notifications via text, your 10-digit U.S. cellphone number must be listed in UAccess. You can also add your phone number to your UAlert profile in the new system that launched Aug. 18. Visit the UAlert page for more information, including step-by-step instructions on how to view or update your contact information and to opt in to receive UAlert messages specific to Greater Phoenix (including Chandler and Gilbert), Sierra Vista, and Oro Valley. Students enrolled in academic programs based in those locations are automatically registered. 

I also encourage you to download the new SafeCats mobile app for easy access to campus safety resources all in one place. Make sure to enable push notifications to receive UAlert messages via the app more quickly than via email or text. You will need to enable location services in the app and on your phone to share your location in real time in case of an emergency. 

Please continue to visit the safety.arizona.edu for safety information and contact the Office of Public Safety if you have questions or concerns about campus safety.

I understand that an event such as this can be unsettling for our community. Please take advantage of the many resources available at the university to find the support that may be helpful to you. We remain committed to the safety and well-being of all members of the university community. As a campus community, now is an ideal time to take a moment to check in with one another and to take care of each other. 

With care,

Patricia Prelock

Provost and Chief Academic Officer

This email was sent to all students, faculty, staff, and designated campus colleagues.