OSU-Cascades Extends Safety Patrols to 24 Hours Following Assaults and Shooting

Oregon State University's Bend campus now operates safety patrols around the clock. The university implemented the extended hours in response to two reported sexual assaults and a shooting at a nearby elementary school.

The two assaults were reported on Oct. 8 and Oct. 10. They occurred in the campus's only residential hall. University officials stated in a letter that the victim did not know the assailant. Both incidents remain under investigation.

A shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School, located a few miles from the university, occurred within the same seven-day window. OSU-Cascades closed on the Friday following the shooting. The university reopened for classes at the start of this week. The local school district remained closed, and Silver Rail Elementary is closed indefinitely.

Charlie Woekel, president of the Associated Students of Cascades Campus, addressed the OSU Board of Trustees on Friday. He noted that the three distinct events have left students concerned about their physical, sexual, and emotional safety. Woekel reported that student leaders are urging campus partners to re-examine and expand emergency protocols. This includes specific measures for active shooter situations and improved visibility for sexual violence prevention resources.

Interim Chancellor and Dean Christine Pollard sent messages to the student body following the assault reports. She wrote that creating a safe campus community is a shared responsibility. Her messages included lists of confidential and non-confidential resources for people affected by sexual violence. Board of Trustees Chair Karla Chambers also responded to Woekel's remarks. She stated that the entire OSU family stands with the Bend community and acknowledged that the healing process will take time.

Student groups have organized support efforts on campus. Leaders set up letter-writing stations to send messages of support to the Silver Rail Elementary parent-teacher organization. Student employees at the campus Makerspace lab built an engraved memorial shrine. The Student Health and Wellness department and the Student Counseling Center opened confidential drop-in sessions for anyone, whether directly impacted or not.

The local incidents coincide with wider attention to campus sexual violence. Five incidents were reported during the first week of classes at the University of Oregon's Eugene campus. National discussion continues over an alleged 2024 rape case at Cornell University. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available at 800-656-4673. Confidential crisis counseling is available around the clock by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990.