SMU statement on Friday's campus lockdown

SMU was locked down briefly Friday morning in response to a potential threat.

After learning at approximately 8:35 a.m. about a potentially armed man in the vicinity, near Greenville and SMU Boulevard, the SMU campus began emergency actions. As the suspect's location was being tracked via cellphone signal, SMU began locking exterior doors to campus facilities and notifying building managers of the possible threat.

At 9:06 a.m., the campus locked down. Students, faculty and staff were notified by alerts via text, phone, e-mail, social media and website. The lockdown ended at 9:16 a.m. after Dallas Police arrested the man on Mockingbird Lane east of US 75 (Central Expressway). The campus was informed to return to normal activities.

There is no indication that the suspect ever entered the SMU campus, west of Central Expressway. The University acted out of an abundance of caution based on information provided regarding the possible proximity of the suspect to campus. 

Classes have ended for the semester but final exams are in progress. SMU is making arrangements for students whose exams were interrupted to have them rescheduled. SMU Counseling services also are available.  SMU appreciates the fast action of Dallas Police in apprehending the suspect. 

Media inquiries should be directed to Dallas Police Media Relations.

Dallas Police Statement

At approximately 6:00 am today, Dallas Police officers were dispatched to the 6000 block of Melody Lane regarding a man who threatened to kill himself. Officers made entry into the apartment, but the caller had already left the location. The caller left behind a suicide note indicating that he was a danger to himself and possibly others. Officers determined he was on foot and broadcast a description of the caller.

Dallas Police then notified Stonewall Jackson Elementary and SMU of the situation. The two schools were placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure. Officers located the caller at approximately 9:10 am in the 5400 block of E. Mockingbird Lane and placed him into custody without incident. The only weapons found on him were two small pocketknives.

There is no evidence at this time to indicate that he threatened anyone during this incident. He was transported to an area hospital for evaluation. This incident will be documented on service number 115316-A.

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