Loyola Community:

Campus Safety recognizes the concern of the Loyola community about the two homicide investigations in the neighborhoods half a mile north of Loyola’s Lake Shore campus, and we are also aware that the trial of Chicago Police Officer Jason Van Dyke has been sent to the jury for deliberation.

We are monitoring the progress of both situations, through all available law enforcement sources, in order to best serve the University community and assure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. Please stay tuned on these issues through media sources for your own safety and awareness of any resulting disruptions in and around Chicago.

We want to remind you of steps you can take to further protect yourself and the many ways you can stay informed. 

• Do not walk alone. If you do not have someone to walk with, you can contact Campus Safety for transportation assistance or utilize free van transportation to and from Lake Shore Campus with the 8-RIDE system running from 6:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Monday to Friday, and more often on weekends. Check the 8-RIDE website for hours and service territory. Despite an earlier message about reduced 8-RIDE service during Fall Break, 8-RIDE will run regular hours with increased service.
• Follow Loyola’s official Twitter feed and Facebook page which will carry updates as needed. Also, register with Loyola Alert to receive text updates for situations impacting the campus
• Check out the Loyola Campus Safety website for updates. Likewise, check the Chicago Police Department’s website and follow its Twitter feed. If you have any information relating to these homicides, please contact CPD at CPDtip.com or 312.744.8263.
• If a person threatens you, follow any demands and run away as soon as it is safe to do so. Once in a safe place, immediately notify Campus Safety at 773.508.SAFE or the Chicago Police Department (CPD) via 9-1-1 or 312.744.8263. Additionally, if you see something you believe to be suspicious, immediately contact Campus Safety or the CPD.
• Be mindful of any demonstrations that may take place following the verdict and try to avoid going to areas where potentially unsafe activities have been reported.
• Contact the Campus Safety Dispatch Center (773.508.SAFE) any time you see something that may be unsafe, or if you need assistance. We are here for you.

Campus Safety remains committed to ensuring the safety of all our students, faculty, and staff. We are optimistic that the Chicago Police Department’s homicide investigation will come to a quick conclusion, and the reaction to any verdict will be peaceful and productive. Please be as vigilant as you can to stay informed of both situations as they unfold.

Sincerely,

Chief Thomas K. Murray
Director of Campus Safety
Loyola University Chicago