BRIEF: UHCL Police Department assists at accidental shooting incident near campus
The UHCL Police Department (PD) notified the community of an accidental shooting that occurred near the Clear Lake campus on June 22. There was no threat to the UHCL campus at any time.
“On Monday, June 22nd, at approximately 8:18 a.m., UHCL PD learned of Pasadena Police investigating a possible shooting on Middlebrook across the street from the UHCL campus at the apartments under construction,” said Russell Miller, UHCL police chief. “Our officers checked by to assist as necessary and ensure the UHCL campus is safe.”
An automated message went out to the UHCL community shortly following the incident.
“Investigating officers advised that an accidental shooting occurred and one person received injuries,” Miller said. “Regarding additional details and outcomes, I do not have that information as we were not the investigating agency.”
Students who need to report similar instances, off or on campus, may reach out to the local or campus police departments.
“Our students should know that if they encounter a tragic event, they should immediately call 911 (off campus) and request the police and Emergency Medical Services (EMS),” Miller said. “If a student is on campus, the fastest police response occurs when they call our dispatch directly at 281-283-2222.”
PD encourages students, who may encounter similar situations on campus, to not put themselves in any danger.
“If one of our students should find themselves faced with a tragedy such as this, the best thing they can do is be a good witness; stay safe and do not put themselves in harm’s way,” Miller said. “Be ready to recall observations and experiences when asked, this is most helpful an investigation.”
Beyond their 24-hour on-campus dispatch service, the UHCL website says the campus PD also offers services such as education opportunities, nighttime car escort and assisting community members who may encounter vehicle issues on campus.
Miller encourages those who may experience stress from the news of similar situations to seek the facts of the case, and not rely on social media or word-of-mouth.
“Many police departments have a Public Affairs Unit that can release non-confidential information about an incident,” Miller said. “Smaller agencies, such as ours, do not have a Public Affairs Unit, but can provide publicly available facts as needed.”
Students with questions or concerns may contact the campus police for help or more information.
