Two individuals suffered gun shots early this morning at the Kum and Go, which is located at the corner of Kimbrough Avenue and Elm Street. This is near the northwest corner of campus across from University Safety/Campus Substation. Here is the story on Ozarks First. University Safety has been in contact with the Springfield Police Department. There is not an ongoing threat to the campus or broader community. Both individuals were part of the same group and neither individual was affiliated with campus. Additional details will be provided as they come available.
A gas line has been ruptured at the intersection of Bear Boulevard and the transitway. There is no immediate danger. Authorities are on site to repair the break. Please avoid the intersection. Woods House and Network and Telecommunications were evacuated. No additional building evacuations are necessary. An all-clear message will be sent once the leak has been stopped.
UPDATE: The leak was stopped and all operations have returned to normal service. Emergency vehicles have left the scene.
On June 25, 2019, a Missouri State University employee reported an active assault to university safety dispatch at the 1000 block of East Madison Street on campus. Springfield police officers and campus safety personnel responded to the location and contacted the victim.
The victim reported that three males approached him and began attacking him. The victim had injuries that did not require medical attention. The suspects fled north toward Bear Boulevard. The victim declined to press charges. The Springfield Police Department is investigating.
Safety Tips
- Utilize the Safe Walk program, if you feel unsafe
- Travel well-lit, busy routes
- Be aware of your surroundings and alert to suspicious activity
- If you see suspicious activity, contact the Springfield Police Department at 911
The arrival of spring on campus signals the end of winter. Notably, native Missouri flowers planted by Grounds begin to bloom. Similarly, students enjoy the newly installed hammock stands. Finally, the arrival of spring leads to an increase of expressive activity speakers on campus. Expressive activity speakers are one way that an issue can be openly discussed and explored on campus. Additionally, freedom to exchange views is essential to the mission of the University.
Location and Safety Considerations
Expressive activity may take place at any outdoor area on campus. However, expressive activity may not endanger the safety of others, interrupt University operations, destroy property, disrupt traffic, or violate University policy. In order to ensure safety, the University prohibits masks, signs larger than 24” by 36”, signs supported by sticks, and other items determined by the University to be a safety hazard. A full list of items may be found at https://www.missouristate.edu/policy/Op1_01_1_RulesforSpeakers.htm .
Noise Level and Content
Noise levels may not interfere with activity on campus. Additionally, expression that is obscene, defamatory, or threats of violence are not permitted. Similarly, sound amplification equipment is limited to the Bear Paw. When Campus Safety becomes aware of an expressive activity on campus, they may send staff to the scene to monitor the situation. The Campus Safety staff are aware of University policy and monitor the activity to ensure compliance. If you believe that a violation has occurred, report the incident to Campus Safety. Campus Safety may be reached at 417-836-5509.
Open Idea Exchange
The University recognizes that individuals may be opposed to and/or offended by certain expressive activities. While disagreement with different opinions is acceptable, creating an environment where issues can openly be discussed is important. Likewise, individuals who listen to an expressive activity bear the responsibility of recognizing and honoring the right of free speech. The Dean of Students office is available to discuss concerns about expressive activity.
The Expressive Activity Policy is available at https://www.missouristate.edu/policy/g5_02_expressiveactivity.htm.
Three members of the campus community reported their rear mounted spare tire removed while on campus this week. The thefts occurred in parking lots between Bear Boulevard and Walnut Street and between National Avenue and John Q. Hammons Parkway. The Springfield Police Department is investigating the incidents.
Vehicle of Interest
If you have any information about a 1998-2005 Subaru Forester similar to the one below, please notify the MSU Police Substation at 836-5509.
Historically, we see an increase in motor vehicle break-ins in late March and early April. To address this, Campus Safety and the Springfield Police Department have increased patrols of parking lots to deter break-ins. Dispatch services has added dispatchers to increase the monitoring of surveillance cameras on campus.
Tips
- If you own a vehicle with a rear mounted spare tire, secure it using locking lug nuts or a security cable.
- Remove your keys from your vehicle.
- Remove valuables from your vehicle.
- Always lock your vehicle.
- Immediately report suspicious individuals in the parking lots to Campus Safety at 417-836-5509.