Police have established a ‘significant’ presence at the University of Victoria’s campus on Friday morning after receiving a report of a threat.
Just after 10 a.m., Saanich police responded to a call that someone wrote a shooting threat on a bathroom wall of the Cornett building.
At 10:32 a.m., police stated on social media that a heavy police presence will be present on the university’s campus to ensure student’s safety and investigate the origins of the threat.
We currently have a significant presence of officers at the University of Victoria investigating a report of a threat. We are taking precautions to ensure that the area is safe. We will provide updates as they become available. pic.twitter.com/wBmMrLumPb
— Saanich Police (@SaanichPolice) December 2, 2022
Since issuing their first statement, Saanich Police announced just after 11 a.m. threat they have evacuated the Cornett building.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we are evacuating one building on campus,” said Saanich Police.
“We are working with UVic Campus Security to ensure the students and faculty are kept updated.”
There is a police Incident on campus. The Cornett building is being evacuated out of an abundance of caution. Building occupants should evacuate. Others should avoid the area. The police are on site. The university remains open.
Updates at: https://t.co/4pxnnum3ZK pic.twitter.com/c5E493t9QP
— UniversityOfVictoria (@uvic) December 2, 2022
“The Cornett building has now been cleared for re-entry and classes and activities within that building will resume,” said a university spokesperson in a media release.
“The safety of our students, faculty and staff is of utmost importance to UVic. Police will remain on scene today to ensure the safety of the campus community.”
Saanich Police had help from the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) and the Integrated Canine Service to clear the building and secure the campus.
This comes just a few days after a shooting threat was made at Oak Bay High School.
“While the message is similar to one found at a local high school a few days ago, we are unable to confirm at this time if the suspect(s) is the same,” said Saanich Police.
Just after noon, the Cornett building was cleared by police for re-entry.
Related:
Shooting threat to students at Oak Bay High School prompts early dismissal
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Saanich Police Department at (250) 475-4321 or report anonymously through the Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-888-222-8477.
