Just checking in to say I'm fine. There was a shooting at my university this afternoon, involving a single gunman in a large lecture class. The gunman is dead, apparently of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. At least 18 persons were injured and transported to the local hospital. Four of those victims were critically injured; two of those has been airlifted to St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, the regional level I trauma center. This incident does not appear to be related to the threats that shut down the campus for a day last December during final examinations for the fall semester.
Update, 7 p.m. There are now conflicting reports. The local hospital has received 17 patients, and now lists six in critical condition, two of whom were airlifted to the regional Level I trauma facility, and three others to other major hospitals in the area. The hospital claims one unidentified (male) fatality in addition to the gunman. Various other media are saying either four or five dead.
i'm glad you're ok. i thought of you when i heard the news reports (and was a little relieved when i heard it was a geology class. is it wrong t be relieved when you find out someone else gets killed just because it's someone other than that guy i've read on the internet for several years?)
in any case, it's good to hear you're okay. my heart goes out to the victims, their friends and family.
Posted by: upyernoz | Thursday, 14 February 2008 at 19:36
I didn't know that was your school, but I'm glad to hear you're okay, and I'm doubly glad I stopped by today.
Posted by: Incertus (Brian) | Thursday, 14 February 2008 at 20:14
Good Lord.
Among the many things I have to be thankful for, I shall add your safety to the list.
My thoughts are with you, your colleagues, and the students & families during this difficult time.
Posted by: andante | Friday, 15 February 2008 at 05:31
I'm so glad you're OK, Michael. My thoughts go to the families of those who are not... and to yours as well; I'm sure they, too, had a few frightening moments if they heard the news before they heard from you. In any case, may you continue to stay out of harm's way.
Posted by: Steve Bates | Friday, 15 February 2008 at 08:32
I'm glad you're alright.My thoughts with you and your friends and colleagues.
Posted by: Scott | Sunday, 17 February 2008 at 11:01