Main content
A message from Emory's police chief

Editor's note: The following message was sent to the Emory community via email by Police Chief Burt Buchtinec on Jan. 16, 2026.


Dear Emory Community,

Earlier today, several campus alert messages were sent regarding a police emergency on our Atlanta campus. I want you to know more about the incident.

The Emory Police Department (EPD) was notified by the CDC Security Operations Center of an unidentified individual acting suspiciously on the roof of the CVS building at Emory Point. EPD immediately began searching the area alongside the Atlanta Police Department. A community alert was issued at 1:05 p.m. asking everyone to avoid the area. Once officers determined there was no imminent threat, an all-clear notification was issued at 2:39 p.m. This incident remains an active police investigation.

I know incidents like this are unsettling. As I shared in my community message on Jan. 14, EPD is committed to fostering a safe and supportive campus. We appreciate strong partnership from local agencies who share our focus on keeping you safe.

Emory has several resources available to support you. Please download the Emory Safe app and enable push notifications to stay informed during emergency situations on campus.

Safety at Emory is strongest when we work together.

Best,
Chief Burt Buchtinec
Emory Police Department


Recent News