Campus Safety Update: Nov. 25

On November 18, hateful graffiti and a violent threat were discovered in an academic building on campus. The threat of violence mentioned the dates of Nov. 19, 20 and 21. It was reported to university officials, including the University Police Department (UPD), and shared within the Spartan community. UPD activated the Emergency Operations Center and notified law enforcement mutual aid partners. UPD determined the risk of follow-through on the threat was “low” and that there was no credible threat to the campus community and UPD actively investigated the incident. The investigation continues, and as of Nov. 25, 2025 there has been no additional evidence of a credible threat and the campus remains open. 

The term “low-level” is a law enforcement protocol used in professional threat assessments. It does not reflect how seriously university leadership or UPD takes the incident.

A “low-level” assessment means that, after reviewing available intelligence — including the content, location, timing, of the incident and any possible related social media activity — experts made a determination that there is no imminent or credible plan for violence. 

This assessment does not minimize the hateful nature or seriousness of the act or its impact on our campus community.

No. UPD does not have a suspect at this time. The investigation is ongoing, and community members are strongly encouraged to share any information that could assist. 

To Report Information:

• Use the Spartan Safe app
  
  
• Call UPD dispatch at (408) 924-2222. All students and employees (faculty, staff, auxiliary) are highly-encouraged to save this number in their contacts.

While the timeframe of the threat has expired, and additional evidence hasn't been found, out of an abundance of caution, UPD continues 24-hour foot patrols around campus and will continue the same level of vigilance that has been demonstrated throughout this past week. 

Additionally:

• Camera coverage across campus has been expanded, including the use of portable units.
• Lighting upgrades and new cameras installed over the summer are operational, enhancing safety.
• UPD has notified both San José Police Department and the FBI and are on standby should their assistance be needed.
• Our campus Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is activated at a low-level for heightened campus monitoring.

UPD is unable to provide specific details of the investigation in order to protect the investigative process, increasing the opportunity to identify a suspect and hold them accountable.

Yes, the campus remains open.

Faculty and staff have been encouraged by academic affairs to remain flexible and understanding as individuals may have different levels of comfort. Students who have concerns should communicate directly with their professors and departments.