Threat of violence prompts University of Chicago campus shutdown

Crain's Chicago Business reports:

The University of Chicago announced today that all classes and activities on the Hyde Park campus would be closed through midnight Monday due to a threat of gun violence.

"The university was informed by FBI counterterrorism officials today (Sunday) that an unknown individual posted an online threat of gun violence against the University of Chicago, specifically mentioning 'the campus quad' on Monday morning at 10 a.m.," U of C President Robert Zimmer announced in a statement sent to students, faculty and staff members.

University officials opted for the shutdown "based on the FBI's assessment of this threat and recent tragic events at other campuses across the country," he added. "Students in College Housing are asked to stay indoors and await direct communication from College Housing Staff."

In response to the threat, the university will have an increased police and security presence on and around campus, including police personnel with visible weapons and other additional measures. University security personnel are keeping in close contact with the FBI, which is continuing to investigate the threat, the statement added.

Class is cancelled.