This morning, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) received a phone call from an individual claiming to have information about the recent acts of vandalism committed against the college and the broader Muscatine community. Alarmingly, the caller also reported a direct threat to their residence and the college.
Upon receiving this information, EICC leadership immediately contacted the Muscatine Police Department and began collaborating with law enforcement to ensure the safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Authorities determined that the threat was related to the hateful and offensive vandalism discovered over the weekend on the Muscatine Community College campus and other locations in the community. Given the initial uncertainty about the suspect’s location, the college placed the Muscatine campus on lockdown to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone present.
Thanks to the swift and diligent response from the Muscatine Police Department, the suspect was located, and the campus was deemed safe. The lockdown was lifted shortly thereafter. Classes and normal operations have resumed as scheduled. Currently, there is no ongoing threat to the campus or the community.
“We are deeply grateful to the Muscatine Police Department for their quick and thorough response to this situation,” said Interim Chancellor, Liang Chee Wee. “Eastern Iowa Community Colleges is committed to a safe environment for all. We categorically condemn any acts of hate or violence and will continue to work closely with law enforcement as they complete their investigation into these incidents.”
For additional information, please contact Johnna Kerres, Associate Director for Marketing and Communications, or the Muscatine Police Department.