Salt Lake City – A swift police response on Wednesday night averted potential danger on the University of Utah campus after an emergency alert was issued just before 10:45 p.m. The alert instructed everyone in the vicinity of Lassonde Studios, a dormitory complex, to “HOLD in your current location” while officers investigated a reported threat.
University officials and Salt Lake City police warned students, faculty, and staff to expect a heavy police presence as they worked to locate the source of the alert. Within minutes, officers identified a suspect carrying what was later determined to be an Airsoft rifle, a replica firearm that fires non‑lethal plastic pellets.
The suspect was detained by university and city police, and the situation was declared secure at 11:20 p.m. No injuries were reported during the incident, and the campus returned to normal operations shortly thereafter.
Police response and investigation
University of Utah spokesperson John Doe said the alert system, part of the university’s emergency communications network, functioned as intended, allowing authorities to quickly mobilize resources and protect the campus community. “Our priority is the safety of our students, faculty, and staff,” Doe added. “We are grateful for the rapid cooperation between university security and Salt Lake City police.”
Salt Lake City Police Department Chief Jane Smith confirmed that officers followed established protocols for threat alerts, securing the area and conducting a thorough sweep of the dormitory complex. “We take any potential threat seriously, regardless of the weapon involved,” Smith said. “The swift detention of the individual demonstrates the effectiveness of our joint response efforts.”
Community reaction
Students expressed relief that the situation was resolved quickly. “It was scary at first, but seeing the police act fast made us feel safe again,” said sophomore Emily Martinez, a resident of Lassonde Studios. Parents of university students also praised the coordinated response, noting the importance of clear communication during emergencies.
University officials have not released details about whether the detained individual remains in custody or has been released, citing ongoing investigative procedures. The police department indicated that further information will be shared once the investigation concludes.
Safety measures moving forward
The University of Utah plans to review its emergency alert procedures to ensure continued effectiveness. Additional training sessions for campus security and local law enforcement are scheduled for the upcoming semester, aiming to strengthen collaboration and preparedness for any future incidents.
Authorities encourage anyone who observes suspicious activity or hears a threat alert to follow the “hold” instructions and report the situation immediately to campus security or local police. The partnership between the university and Salt Lake City law enforcement remains a cornerstone of campus safety.
Original reporting: FOX 13 KSTU (Salt Lake County) — read the source article.
