University of Chicago Cancels Monday Classes in Response to FBI Warning

An unknown individual posted an online threat of gun violence, according to the University

Classes at University of Chicago’s Hyde Park campus are canceled Monday after an unknown individual posted an online threat of gun violence, according to the University.

President Robert Zimmer sent a letter to the campus community Sunday to announce the cancellation of all classes and activities on the Hyde Park campus through midnight on Monday.

In the letter, which was also posted online, Zimmer wrote that the University was informed by FBI counterterrorism officials that someone posted a threat of gun violence online. The individual reportedly mentioned specifically “the campus quad” on Monday morning at 10 a.m., according to the letter.

“Based on the FBI’s assessment of this threat and recent tragic events at other campuses across the country, we have decided in consultation with federal and local law enforcement officials, to exercise caution by canceling all classes and activities on the Hyde Park campus through midnight on Monday,” Zimmer wrote.

All non-medical faculty, students and non-essential staff are asked not to come to the Hyde Park campus on Monday. The letter also asked those who will be on campus to remain indoors as much as possible, including students in College Housing.

The University of Chicago will have an increased police presence on and around the campus, according to President Zimmer.

U of C security personnel are working closely with the FBI, which is continuing to investigate the threat.

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, the University libraries, the Quadrangle Club, and other campus facilities will also be closed on Monday.

The University of Chicago Medical Center will remain with added security measures, according to the University.

The school expects to resume normal University operations on Tuesday.

Anyone who sees anything unusual should contact University of Chicago Police at 773-702-8181.

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