Responding to the Shooting at St. John the Divine

December 13, 2020

Dear Columbia Community,

An armed individual who was firing weapons outside of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine after a Christmas concert earlier today was fatally shot by police who were nearby. Thankfully no one was harmed by the gunman.

While the investigation is ongoing and little is known about the gunman’s motive, it is yet another example of violence at a house of worship — something which we have seen too much of in recent years. This tragic event may be especially disturbing for some Columbia students, faculty and staff because it happened so close to campus and was at an event attended by some in our own community.

Please know that there are staff members and resources available to you for support. For students, please do not hesitate to contact your Dean of students or reach out to speak with a counselor or with someone at Religious Life. Staff and faculty can also find supportive resources through the Employee Assistance Program and CopeColumbia. You can also write to us at the Office of University Life at [email protected].

 

In community,

Suzanne B. Goldberg
Executive Vice President for University Life
Herbert and Doris Wechsler Clinical Professor of Law

Joseph Defraine Greenwell
Vice President, Student Affairs
Office of University Life