Safety and Crime Alerts

Motorcycle Theft Prevention Tips for the Campus Community

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Motorcycle Theft Prevention Tips for the Campus Community

Missouri State University Campus Safety is reminding students, faculty, and staff to take extra precautions after two motorcycle thefts were reported on campus this month. Motorcycles can be attractive targets for thieves due to their mobility and resale value, especially when left unsecured or parked in isolated areas.

While no security measure can completely prevent theft, taking a few extra steps can greatly reduce the risk.

Tips to Help Protect Your Motorcycle:

Use a High-Quality Lock

  • Use a hardened steel chain lock, disc lock, or U-lock designed specifically for motorcycles.
  • Whenever possible, secure the motorcycle to a fixed object such as a bike rack or pole.
  • Consider using multiple locking devices to slow down thieves.

Park in Visible, Well-Lit Areas

  • Choose parking areas with good lighting and high pedestrian traffic.
  • Avoid leaving motorcycles overnight in isolated or low-visibility locations when possible.

Lock the Steering Column

  • Always engage the steering lock when parking your motorcycle.
  • Even short stops should include locking the bike.

Install an Alarm or GPS Tracker

  • Audible alarms can draw attention and discourage theft attempts.
  • GPS tracking devices may assist police in locating a stolen motorcycle.

Remove Keys and Valuables

  • Never leave keys in the ignition.
  • Remove helmets, bags, and other valuables from the motorcycle when unattended.

Use a Motorcycle Cover

  • Covers help conceal the make and model of the motorcycle and may discourage opportunistic thieves.

Register Your Motorcycle Information

  • Keep a record of your VIN, license plate number, make, model, and any identifying marks.
  • Take current photographs of your motorcycle for documentation purposes.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you observe suspicious behavior around parking lots, garages, or motorcycles on campus, report it immediately to Campus Safety at 417-836-5509 or local law enforcement at 911. Quick reporting can help prevent thefts and assist in identifying suspects.

The Bear Shield app is also available to quickly contact Campus Safety, submit tips, and access Campus Safety resources.

Campus Safety encourages all motorcycle owners to remain alert and take proactive security measures to help protect their property.

Lock It Right: Preventing E-Scooter Thefts at Missouri State

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Electric scooters have become one of the most popular ways to get around Missouri State’s campus — they’re fast, fun, and eco-friendly. But with their rise in popularity has come something less welcome: a rise in scooter thefts.

Since the beginning of the semester, several e-scooters have been stolen from campus bike racks. In nearly every case, the scooters were not secured with the required U-lock — instead, they were left unlocked, loosely chained, or secured with thin cable locks that can be cut in seconds. This photo shows a properly secured e-scooter:

Scooter locked using U-Lock

Campus Safety is asking all students, faculty, and staff to take a few extra seconds to lock smart and lock right.

Why MSU Requires U-Locks

Our campus policy requires that all e-scooters parked on university property be secured using a U-lock (also called a D-lock). This isn’t just a rule — it’s your best defense against theft.

Here’s why:

  • Hard to cut: U-locks are made of hardened steel and resist bolt cutters far better than cable locks.
  • Secures the frame: They allow you to lock the scooter’s frame (not just the wheel) to a solid rack.
  • Fast deterrent: Thieves target easy opportunities. A scooter with a U-lock takes time, tools, and risk to steal — most won’t even try.

How to Properly Secure Your Scooter

When parking your scooter:
1. Use a U-lock every time — even if you’ll be gone for just a few minutes.
2. Lock the frame and one wheel to the bike rack or fixed anchor.
3. Avoid handrails, fences, or signs — only use approved racks.
4. Pick visible, well-lit areas near entrances or security cameras.
5. Register your scooter with Transportation Services — it helps us return recovered scooters faster.

If you’re unsure how to lock your scooter properly, stop by the Campus Safety/Transportation office at 700 E. Elm Street or look for our ‘Lock It Right’ posters around campus.

What Campus Safety Is Doing

  • Increased patrols around high-traffic scooter racks.
    • Expanded camera monitoring near common parking zones.
    • Collaboration with Springfield Police to track and investigate reported thefts.

Policy Reminder

Under the Missouri State University Transportation and Safety Policy:

“All personal e-scooters and bicycles must be secured with a U-lock when stored on campus racks. Improperly parked or unsecured scooters may be impounded by Campus Safety.”

This policy helps keep campus walkways clear, property secure, and thefts down — and it only works when everyone does their part.

Final Thoughts

Your e-scooter is an investment — protect it like one. A $40 U-lock could save you from a $400-$800 loss.

Take a few seconds to lock it right every time you park. Together, we can keep campus rolling safely.

If you notice suspicious activity near bike or scooter racks, contact Campus Safety at (417) 836-5509 or through the Bear Shield app.

Missouri State University Campus Safety is committed to protecting what moves Bears forward at MO State!

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.