‘Specific threat’ increases security at U of M, triggers lockdowns in western Minnesota

‘Specific threat’ increases security at U of M, triggers lockdowns in western Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (KARE 11) – A stepped-up security presence will be noticeable on the University of Minnesota (U of M) campus Thursday, and at least two school districts in western Minnesota are in lockdown after what police are calling a “specific threat” from a known individual.

The university posted on X (formerly Twitter) that a 41-year-old man has threatened to shoot people on the Twin Cities campus. The University of Minnesota Police Department is working with the BCA and law enforcement in Chippewa County, the man’s home region, to locate him and investigate the threat.

Authorities say the suspect is from the community of Watson, just six miles from the city of Montevideo. Due to safety concerns and ongoing law enforcement activity in the area, both the Lac Qui Parle Valley and Dawson Boyd School Districts have increased security measures at district buildings until the suspect is apprehended.

While university police have named the man accused of making the threat, KARE 11 does not publicly identify people until they have been officially charged with a crime. A search does turn up an extensive criminal history for the man, ranging from drug possession and damage to property to burglary and fleeing police.

In the meantime, extra police officers will be deployed on the campus Thursday. School is currently not in session so student traffic will be minimal. Otherwise, campus is open and operating as normal. All buildings will be accessible only with UCard, and employees are encouraged to work from home.

Updates are available on the U of M website.