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A message from Emory's police chief

Editor's note: The following message was shared with the Emory community via email on Sept. 19, 2024. 


Dear Emory Community,

Earlier today, a message was sent via the Emory emergency alert system regarding a police emergency on our Atlanta campus. I am writing to include additional details on the incident that precipitated this alert.

At 8:07 a.m., the Emory Police Department was notified of a “shots fired” call in a limited-access kitchen area of a leased business in Emory Point, an apartment and retail complex adjacent to Emory’s Atlanta campus. EPD officers immediately responded, and the alert was distributed asking everyone to avoid the area. An all-clear notification was issued about 20 minutes later.

This was an isolated incident between two individuals who are employed by an Emory-affiliated service company. Responding officers determined that at least one gunshot was fired but did not result in any injuries. The individual who discharged a weapon left the area. This individual is no longer permitted on Emory’s campuses or in any Emory facilities. Earlier today Emory distributed a Public Safety Notice about this incident as required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security and Crime Statistics Act. This notice includes additional details about this incident.

If you do not already have the Emory Safe app, I strongly encourage you to download it. That is the best way to stay connected during any emergency on campus.

I realize that this morning’s incident may have been upsetting and stressful. Please know Emory has a variety of resources to support you.

The Emory Police Department takes pride in serving this community and we will continue our efforts to keep everyone safe and secure.

Best,

Burt Buchtinec

Chief, Emory Police Department


Risk Reduction Tips

  • Stay alert, trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings
  • If something or someone makes you uneasy, move toward a place where there are other people
  • Walk in a group, or at least with one other person, whenever possible
  • Use well-lit and well-traveled areas
  • Use the safety escort services
  • Program emergency numbers in your cell phone
  • Report suspicious behavior to the police immediately.

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