Safety and Crime Alerts -

Safety and Crime Alerts

Protect Your Ride: Preventing Electric Scooter and Bike Thefts on Campus

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Missouri State University Safety wants to alert students about a recent increase in thefts of unsecured electric scooters from campus bike racks. On March 13, 2025, two electric scooters were stolen after being left unsecured. These incidents highlight the importance of properly securing your bike or scooter to prevent theft.

How to Keep Your Bike or Scooter Safe

  • Use a U-Lock – Cable locks are easy to cut. A sturdy U-lock is the best deterrent against theft. Secure both the frame and the front wheel to a bike rack.
  • Register Your Bike or Scooter – Registering with University Safety makes it easier to recover your property if stolen and helps law enforcement track stolen items. Register yours today:
    Bike & Scooter Registration Form
  • Park in Well-Lit, High-Traffic Areas – Thieves prefer low-visibility targets. Locking your bike or scooter or bike in a visible, well-lit location makes it less attractive to criminals.
  • Take Accessories With You – If your bike or scooter has a removable battery or other detachable parts, take them with you when you leave.
  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings – Report any suspicious activity around bike racks to University Safety immediately at 417-836-5509.

These recent thefts serve as a reminder that taking a few simple precautions can help protect your property. If you have any questions or concerns about bike and scooter security, contact Missouri State University Safety.

Reckless Driving and Firearm Discharge Near Campus

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Missouri State University Safety is informing the campus community about an incident that occurred on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at approximately 1:16 PM. A black BMW passenger car was observed at the intersection of Dollison and Normal, just south of campus, driving recklessly. A resident reported that one of the occupants of the vehicle discharged a single round from a handgun. Fortunately, no injuries or property damage have been reported in connection with this incident.

Following the discharge, the vehicle fled south away from campus and has not been seen in the area since. The Springfield Police Department is investigating the incident and does not believe there to be a danger to the campus community.

Campus Safety encourages anyone with information about this event to contact the Springfield Police Department at (417) 864-1810 or Missouri State University Safety at (417) 836-5509.

We remind the campus community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately. If you feel unsafe, please utilize campus safety resources, including the Bear Line shuttle, blue light emergency phones, and the Campus Safety Safe Walk program.

Your safety is our priority. Stay aware, stay safe, and look out for one another.

Campus Safety responds to Wehr Band Hall for possible gas leak

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At 11:43 am Tuesday, February 25th, Missouri State University Campus Safety responded to Wehr Band Hall following a report of a natural gas smell inside the building. Out of an abundance of caution, Campus Safety personnel quickly arrived on the scene, ensuring the safe and orderly evacuation of the building while coordinating with the Springfield Fire Department.

Fire crews used specialized detection equipment to check the building thoroughly, and no gas leak was found. After further investigation, it was determined that the reported odor was likely sewer gas, rather than natural gas.

Fortunately, no injuries or hazards were identified. Once the building was deemed safe, normal operations resumed.

Your Safety is Our Priority

Campus Safety appreciates the swift response of the Springfield Fire Department and the cooperation of the campus community during this incident. Remember, if you ever smell gas or detect an unusual odor, take these steps:

✔ Evacuate immediately and move to a safe location.
✔ Call 911 or Campus Safety at (417) 836-5509.
✔ Do not use electronics, lighters, or open flames in the area.

We encourage all students, faculty, and staff to report any safety concerns as soon as possible. Your awareness and quick action help keep our campus safe!

For more safety tips and updates, follow Missouri State University Campus Safety on our official website.

Stay safe, Bears!

Security Reminder: Preventing Theft in Campus Event Spaces

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Missouri State University’s Safety Department is issuing a reminder to all staff and event personnel after two recent thefts of electronics from campus sports venues.

On January 17, 2025, a theft occurred at Great Southern Bank Arena, and on February 1, 2025, another theft took place at Plaster Stadium. In both cases, it appears that unauthorized individuals may have gained access due to secured rooms being left unlocked.

Preventing Future Thefts: Security Best Practices

To enhance security and protect university property, we urge all staff to follow these key safety measures:

  • Always Lock Doors – Even if you are stepping away for just a few minutes, secure all rooms, offices, and storage areas containing valuable equipment.
  • Double-Check Before Leaving – Before leaving a space unattended, take a moment to ensure all doors are properly closed and locked.
  • Limit Access to Authorized Personnel – Only allow individuals with proper credentials to enter secure areas. Do not prop open doors or share access codes.
  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings – Report any suspicious behavior or unauthorized individuals in restricted areas to University Safety immediately.
  • If You See Something, Say Something – Call Missouri State University Safety at (417) 836-5509 to report concerns or suspicious activity.

University Safety is actively investigating these incidents and reviewing security measures to prevent future occurrences. We appreciate the cooperation of our campus community in keeping Missouri State a safe and secure environment.

For questions or additional security guidance, please contact the Safety Department

Thank you for your vigilance and commitment to campus security.

Staying Safe Together: Responding to an Incident at Meyer Library

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On the evening of January 23, 2025, University Safety responded to a report of suspicious behavior at Meyer Library. Thanks to the vigilance of library staff, the incident was handled quickly and safely, reinforcing the importance of our community working together to maintain a secure campus environment.

What Happened
University Safety received a call regarding a suspicious person who left a bag in the library and departed shortly after. Shortly afterward, the individual returned to the library, where University Safety officers and the Springfield Police Department contacted them. Due to the suspicious nature of the individual’s behavior, the Springfield Fire Department was also contacted to inspect the bag.

To ensure the safety of everyone in the library, students and staff in the immediate area around the bag were evacuated as a precaution. After a thorough investigation, the bag’s contents were found to be non-threatening.

The individual involved has been identified as a Missouri State student. While no charges are being filed at this time, the incident remains under investigation by University Safety and Student Conduct.

Why This Matters
This event underscores the importance of “if you see something, say something.” The quick-thinking staff at Meyer Library played a vital role in ensuring the safety of our campus by reporting suspicious behavior. Even though the situation turned out not to be a serious threat, taking proactive measures helped us act swiftly and appropriately.

Our Commitment to Safety
Missouri State University is dedicated to maintaining a safe environment for all students, staff, and visitors. We understand that incidents like this can feel unsettling, but please know that every report is taken seriously, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure our campus remains a safe place to learn and grow.

How You Can Help

  • Report suspicious activity: If you see something that doesn’t feel right, contact University Safety immediately at [safety contact information].
  • Stay informed: Follow us at Safety and Crime Alerts – for updates and resources.
  • Know your resources: From campus safety escorts to emergency notifications, we’re here to help.

We want to extend our gratitude to everyone involved in responding to this incident, especially the staff at Meyer Library, for their quick actions. Your vigilance and cooperation keep our campus community safe and strong.

Let’s continue to look out for one another at Missouri State. Together, we can ensure that Missouri State remains a place where everyone feels safe and supported.

Stay safe!