FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

SAU Tech Campus Incident Update

Camden, AR – A shooting incident occurred at approximately 10:31 PM behind Highland Park Hall on the SAU Tech campus. Following the incident, the campus was swiftly placed on lockdown, and emergency services, including an ambulance, were dispatched to the scene.

One individual, who is not a student of SAU Tech, was injured during the event. The victim was taken to Ouachita County Medical Center, where they received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and subsequently released from the hospital. 

The case is being investigated by campus police, the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office, and state police.

The Vice Chancellor for Student Services, Dr. Ed Rice, expressed concern, stating, "The safety and security of our students are paramount. It's deeply unfortunate when incidents off campus spill over and endanger our campus community. Our priority remains the well-being and safety of our students and staff."

SAU Tech Chancellor Dr. Jerry Thomas extended his gratitude towards the rapid response of law enforcement and emergency responders: "I am proud of the swift action taken by the state police, Calhoun County Sheriff, campus police, and first responders. Thanks to our emergency responders and the SAU Tech Crisis Management Team, we were able to manage the situation effectively and maintain the safety of our campus.”

There is currently no evidence of an ongoing threat to the SAU Tech campus. The college urges anyone with information or needing information related to this incident to please contact Cindy Murphy of the Arkansas State Police Department.

Contact Information:

Cindy Murphy, Arkansas State Police, Communications Director

Phone: 501-618-8232

About SAU Tech

Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) is a comprehensive community college dedicated to meeting the educational and training needs of its students.