Update on Monday's Incident
Sept. 26, 2019
Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,
The past few days have been challenging for our campus community as we have shared concerns for the two students who were injured in Monday's terrible attack, as well as for one another's well-being. I have heard many expressions of care from members of our campus community and beyond, and have been heartened by all the declarations of togetherness. I know you join me in offering our support to the victims and to one another.
I am pleased to report that one student has been able to leave the hospital and the student who remains hospitalized is recovering well. Out of respect for their privacy, we are not sharing their names. We remain in close contact with them and their families, and staff and faculty are doing all they can to support the students as they recover. Brandeis will remain closely involved.
I also want everyone to be aware of the current information we have from the Waltham Police Department. The department has stated that, although investigators have not determined a motive for the attack, it appears to have been a random act, and the suspect is in custody, facing a number of charges. Because the suspect is a juvenile, we do not know the person’s identity, and this information will not be released. Proceedings in the case will be held in closed session, not open to the public. Brandeis Public Safety remains in close contact with the Waltham Police Department.
As Public Safety noted on Monday, both they and the Waltham Police have increased patrols. We are continuing to find ways to improve community safety. We are increasing the size of our campus police force, with plans now to hire a night lieutenant and an additional daytime public safety officer. We are planning to contact off-campus landlords to encourage them to make sure their buildings are well-lit and well-secured. We are evaluating ways to increase the BranVan service, especially during the evening. Our Public Safety website includes information and resources related to safety and crime prevention. Registering to receive updates from the Brandeis Emergency Notification System (BENS) is another important way to stay informed about safety-related issues. If you did not receive BENS notifications during Monday’s incident, be sure to register for BENS alerts today.
In the days ahead, please remember the many options for support on campus for both undergraduate and graduate students, including the Counseling Center (which can be reached at 781-736-3730), the Dean of Students Office (781-736-3600), the Office of Graduate Student Affairs (781-736-3547), and the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs (781-736-2005). Faculty, staff, and students can also visit the Support at Brandeis website to review the comprehensive list of resources and services available to all members of our community.
The incident earlier this week has been unsettling for all of us. True to the nature of this community, however, I am confident we will continue to look out for one another and find meaningful, compassionate ways to reduce our collective unease.
Sincerely,
Ron