On Monday, Oct. 2 at 5:02 p.m., University of Alberta Protective Services (UAPS) received a call from a student who reported seeing a male with a possible handgun in a washroom on the first floor of the Centennial Centre for Interdisciplinary Science building on North Campus. The caller believed he saw the handle of the gun sticking out from the man’s pocket.

As per the appropriate protocol when weapons may be involved, UAPS immediately advised the caller to phone the Edmonton Police Service; at 5:06 p.m. UAPS also contacted EPS to confirm they were responding. At 5:09 p.m., the UAPS inspector followed crisis protocols and issued an advisory notification to UAPS leadership, Risk Management Services and University Relations.

Police arrived on scene at 5:21 p.m. and conducted a search of CCIS but did not find anyone carrying a handgun or matching the caller’s description. UAPS and a member of EPS also searched the bus loop area of campus, but did not find a suspect. EPS and UAPS have determined there is currently no risk to personal safety.

The safety and security of students, faculty and staff is the university’s primary concern. This situation and recent events in Edmonton serve as a reminder that if you observe what you consider a risk to public safety on campus, phone 911 immediately and follow up with UAPS (780–492–5050).

The university has an effective emergency response system in place and works with other response agencies to manage any perceived threat to public safety. As peace officers in Alberta, UAPS are not authorized to engage when weapons may be involved. UAPS plays a critical role in supporting the activities of police and followed proper protocols in working with EPS.

In the event of a confirmed crisis that poses an immediate threat, the university will issue an emergency alert through appropriate channels, such as email, the MyUalberta App, building alarm systems, on ualberta.ca and UAlberta social media. If you have any questions about safety on U of A campuses, contact UAPS at 780–492–5050.