Last updated March 1 at 5:50 p.m.
Just after 8 a.m. this morning, UTM students received a threatening email from an unknown sender.
Bud Grimes, Director of Univerity Relations, said that he does not believe this is a credible threat, but that everyone has been notified while Public Safety works diligently on the investigation. No press release is currently available.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Public Safety office at (731) 881-7777.
Timeline:
8:05 a.m.- Informational Technology Services (ITS) sent out an email informing both alumni and current students that changes would be made to their student Google accounts that are linked to the University.
8:11 a.m.- An email with no subject and was sent to ITS and all UTM students and alumni.
"When I find you I will kill you."
The sender's phone number was attached to the email, but it was the only identification attached to the ominous message.
8:34 a.m.- ITS sent an email to the same recipients addressing the distress surrounding the situation. The email stated that UTM Public Safety had been notified and the individual's information had been handed over to open an investigation. IT Services also stated that the user's access had been revoked.
9:54 a.m.- Via Rave Alert, a campus notification system, Public Safety sent out a message also addressing the concerning email and confirming that an investigation is underway. They stated all leads are being followed while they determine if this threat is credible.
5:01 p.m.- Students received an update via Rave Alert stating that the investigation is still ongoing, the university does not consider the threat creditable at this time and that no additional threats have been received. Updates are set to continue.
What are people saying on social media?
Online, many students have voiced concerns surrounding the situation. Amid school shootings around the country, specifically the recent Michigan State University shooting, some students feared attending classes today, worried the unknown sender would be on campus.
Students also posted that they have no idea what to do if they were in a similar situation to MSU. Noting they didn't know the protocol for a fire, tornado, earthquake or active shooter. Students who live on-campus are given protocol for fires and tornadoes, but this creates a gap in knowledge for students who live off-campus.
On YikYak, an anonymous social message board, students have tried to find humor in the unease by cracking jokes. "20 upvotes and I'll call the number from the email." "Good morning to everyone except [person in question]." "I got that email and thought I was special for getting a death threat."
How did the sender get students' emails?
The sender used "reply all" on an email sent out to UTM students and alumni in order to send the email. Their account has been revoked during the ongoing investigation.
Are there classes on campus today?
While some staff members have canceled in-person classes, UTM has not officially closed the campus. However, there are students who are upset with this decision.
Comments