Shreveport, La. – In a swift response that underscores the dedication of campus safety teams, Centenary College of Louisiana arrested a suspect Friday afternoon in connection with an early‑morning break‑in at Hardin Hall, the college’s on‑campus residence hall.
Quick student alert leads to arrest
At approximately 3 a.m. on Friday, a student inside Hardin Hall noticed an unfamiliar individual moving through the building. The student safely exited the residence hall, identified the man at a nearby Circle K convenience store, and immediately called the college’s Department of Public Safety (DPS). Within minutes, officers from Centenary College and the Shreveport Police Department arrived on the scene.
The suspect, a 30‑year‑old male, was taken into custody without incident and transported to Caddo Correctional Center. He is expected to face multiple charges related to the break‑in and alleged threats made to students inside the residence hall. Centenary College police have not released the suspect’s name.
Campus safety response
Centenary DPS officers responded to the initial call within three minutes, activating the college’s emergency notification system to alert students, faculty, and staff. The rapid alert helped ensure that the campus community was informed and could take appropriate precautions.
No injuries were reported, but officials confirmed that the intruder threatened students while inside the residence hall. The prompt action of the student and the coordinated response of campus police prevented further danger.
College leadership praises student vigilance
Centenary College President Christopher Holoman praised the student’s quick thinking and the DPS’s rapid response. “I am very grateful for the awareness of our student and the response of our Department of Public Safety,” Holoman said. “They truly work tirelessly to keep our campus safe.”
The incident highlights the importance of vigilant community members and well‑trained public‑safety personnel in maintaining a secure environment for students and staff. Centenary College continues to review its security protocols to ensure the safety of its residential facilities.
What’s next?
The suspect will appear before a Caddo Parish judge for arraignment, where the specific charges will be detailed. The college’s DPS will remain on heightened alert and continue to work closely with local law‑enforcement partners to monitor campus safety.
Students are encouraged to report any suspicious activity promptly and to stay informed through the college’s emergency notification system. The incident serves as a reminder that community vigilance, combined with professional public‑safety response, is essential to protecting campus life.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
