Dear campus community members,
I want you to be the first to know the results of the FBI investigation into the tragic events that occurred on our beautiful campus on Nov. 4. I appreciate your patience and understanding as law enforcement completed its work.
The FBI announced this afternoon that they found no evidence that the student who perpetrated the attack had ties to any terrorist co-conspirators or organizations. The FBI has concluded that the student most likely was self-radicalized and acted alone. The investigation is now closed.
As your chancellor, I remain troubled that this could happen on any university campus, much less our own. UC Merced is inherently a very safe campus and a small, close-knit community. And yet, tragedy stuck, and through that tragedy the remarkable character of our campus was revealed. Students, faculty and staff pulled together in expressions of Bobcat pride, solidarity and community. I will remain forever grateful for the many ways in which you have helped the campus to heal.
While the conclusion of the investigation brings some resolution, it may also bring to the surface emotions that are still raw and fragile. The compassion demonstrated for all members of our campus community, then and now, will help us to continue the healing process.
Counseling and Psychological Services remains available for anyone in the campus community who needs help grieving and moving forward.
Sincerely,
Dorothy Leland
Chancellor
