Safety and Crime Alerts

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!

Weapons Discharged Near Campus

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The Springfield Police Department is investigating an altercation in the 900 block of East Elm Street that occurred around midnight on March 8, 2024. The incident involved two groups of individuals where one individual used a weapon and fired shots in the air. The incident appeared to stem from an interaction between the individuals earlier in the day.

Safety Tips:
• Avoid engaging in conflict with unknown individuals.
• Request law enforcement rather than escalate disagreements.
• If a weapon is displayed, Run, Hide, or Fight, call 9-1-1 and Campus Safety at (417) 836-5509 immediately.

Campus Safety Alert

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At approximately 12:40 a.m. on April 23, 2023, there was an off campus shooting between two groups of individuals in two different vehicles at the Kum and Go at 609 E. Elm Street, which is northwest of the main campus. Three individuals received what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at a local hospital. The Springfield Police Department continues to investigate but does not currently have any suspects in custody.

There is not an immediate danger to the campus community. None of those involved are believed to be part of the university community.

PREVENTION REMINDERS

  • Be aware of your surroundings, particularly late at night.
  • Avoid interacting with unknown individuals and groups.
  • Avoid off-campus areas with increased rates of serious crimes.
  • Utilize the Bear Line during its hours of operation.
  • Utilize the Campus Safety “Safe Walk” program rather than walking alone.

If you have information concerning this incident, you are encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or 9-1-1 for immediate assistance. If you want to remain anonymous, you may report information to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or www.P3tips.com.

Update: UTV/Golf Cart Thefts

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Photo of suspects in the UTV/golf cart thefts.

There have been additional incidents involving UTV/golf carts since the last post. A golf cart was taken near the Power House on February 17, 2023. It was returned after a brief period and a UTV was taken instead. A photo of the suspects is included.

On February 27, another golf cart was reported stolen from the area near the Forsyth Athletic Center. It was reported the golf cart was secured by a cable to prevent theft.

Reminders:

  • Whenever possible, keep indoors when not in use.
  • If outdoors park in a well-lit area with good video camera coverage. (UTV/Golf Carts may be stored at Bear Park North and secured from theft. Contact Campus Safety at 417-836-5509 for arrangements.)
  • Always lock doors and remove the ignition key.
  • Add a theft prevention device to prevent the use of a universal key or the ability to bypass the ignition key.

If you have information concerning this incident, you are encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or 9-1-1 for immediate assistance. If you want to remain anonymous, you may report information to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or www.P3tips.com.

Utility Vehicle/Golf Cart Thefts

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At approximately 05:00 a.m. on February 8, 2023, two white males entered the campus in a silver 4-door passenger car. The vehicle parked in the Blair-Shannon parking lot, and one of the occupants walked directly to the Utility Vehicle (UTV) parked next to the Telecommunications building. The suspect left with the UTV and the second subject in the silver car, leaving campus westbound on Bear Blvd.

A similar incident occurred on January 27, 2023, when a golf cart was stolen from Forsyth Athletics Center.

UTV/GOLF CART THEFT PREVENTION REMINDERS

  • When possible, keep indoors when not in use.
  • If outdoors park in a well-lit area with good video camera coverage.
  • Always lock doors and remove the ignition key.
  • Consider adding a theft prevention device to prevent the use of a universal key or the ability to bypass the ignition key.

If you have information concerning this incident, you are encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or 9-1-1 for immediate assistance. If you want to remain anonymous, you may report information to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or www.P3tips.com.