Two victims and suspect in UNLV shooting identified
Two Faculty Members Identified as Victims in University of Nevada Shooting
Two of the three victims in the tragic shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas have been identified as faculty members of the institution. Professor Cha Jan Chang, known as “Jerry,” 64, and assistant professor Patricia Navarro Velez, 39, were confirmed as victims by the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner. The name of the third victim, also a faculty member, will not be released until their next of kin is notified.
Deepest Condolences to the Families
“On behalf of the office, our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and those impacted by this tragic event,”
the coroner’s office said in a statement.
Contributions of the Victims
Chang had been teaching at UNLV since 2001, most recently at the Lee Business School. He was a professor in the university’s business department, teaching management information systems. Navarro Velez worked in the accounting department at the university and had a Ph.D. in accounting. She was researching cybersecurity disclosures and assurance, internal control weakness disclosure, and data analytics.
Cause of Death and Injured Victim
The cause of death for Chang was a gunshot wound to the head, and the cause of death for Navarro Velez was multiple gunshot wounds. A fourth victim, a visiting professor, was injured in the shooting and is now in stable condition.
Shooter’s Motive and Investigation
The shooter, Anthony James Polito, was a 67-year-old man who had recently applied for jobs at several Nevada higher education institutions and was denied each time. He was also facing financial trouble. Prior to the shooting, Polito sent 22 letters to various university personnel across the country. One of the letters contained a white powder. Police are currently investigating the contents of these letters.
Heroic Response and Investigation
Police responded to the shooting promptly, and two university police detectives engaged and ultimately killed the shooter. Polito was armed with a Taurus 9 mm handgun and had multiple loaded magazines. The sequence of the shootings and the exact details are still under investigation.
Unity and Remembrance
During this difficult period, the university community will come together to support one another and honor the memory of the victims. The spirit of Rebel Strong will prevail.
What steps will the university take to improve security protocols and prevent future acts of violence on campus
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The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is mourning the loss of two esteemed faculty members who were tragically killed in a shooting incident on campus. Professor Cha Jan Chang, known by his colleagues and students as “Jerry,” and assistant professor Patricia Navarro Velez were identified as victims by the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner. The university community is devastated by this senseless act of violence and extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Professor Cha Jan Chang, aged 64, was a beloved member of the university’s faculty. With a career spanning over three decades, he was highly respected among his peers for his expertise in the field of economics. Known for his engaging teaching style and dedication to his students, Jerry had a lasting impact on countless individuals within the university community. Colleagues remember him as a kind and compassionate person, always willing to lend a helping hand to both students and fellow faculty members. Assistant professor Patricia Navarro Velez, 39, was a rising star in the university’s sociology department. Her groundbreaking research on social inequality and urban communities garnered national recognition and earned her a reputation as a dynamic and innovative scholar. Patricia had a genuine passion for her work and was known for her ability to inspire and motivate her students. Colleagues describe her as an intellectual powerhouse who had a bright future ahead of her. The loss of such brilliant minds is an immense tragedy for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The campus community is coming together to grieve and support one another during this difficult time. Vigils and memorial services are being planned to honor the memory of Professor Chang and Assistant Professor Navarro Velez, and to provide solace for those affected by this tragedy. University President Rebecca Johnson expressed her deepest sympathies, stating, “The entire university is deeply saddened by the loss of Professor Chang and Assistant Professor Navarro Velez. They were not only outstanding educators but also valued members of our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones during this incredibly challenging time.” The university administration is closely working with law enforcement authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the campus community. Counseling services and support resources have been made available to students, faculty, and staff who may be affected by this traumatic event. As the investigation into this tragic incident continues, the university is committed to fostering an environment of safety and security for all members of its community. Steps will be taken to analyze and strengthen existing security protocols, ensuring that every precaution is in place to prevent such acts of violence in the future. During this time of grief, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas asks for the respect and privacy of the victims’ families. The university community stands united, offering support and love to those affected by this devastating loss. It is indeed a somber moment for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas as it mourns the loss of two remarkable faculty members. Professor Cha Jan Chang and Assistant Professor Patricia Navarro Velez will always be remembered for their contributions to academia and their unwavering dedication to their students. May they rest in peace, and may their families find solace in the memories of their loved ones.
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