Update from Bloomington Police
Nov. 7, 2026
Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington spoke to families at an event during Family Weekend and provided a brief update regarding the ongoing investigation:
"There is nothing which has surfaced in our investigation that suggests any IWU students were involved. There is nothing which suggests any IWU students were targeted.
"At this time there is nothing in our investigation which suggests there is an ongoing threat or concern of safety at the IWU Campus or surrounding neighborhoods."
Resources for Supporting Students
Expanded Support Resources
Nov. 9, 2026
Dear students:
We know that this week has been extraordinarily difficult for our entire campus community. As I reflect on all the anxiety, fear, anger, and hurt, I am also grateful for the strength and resilience of our Titan community. We have been better together this week and we will continue to heal together as we recover from this tragedy. Ongoing campus updates can be found on the website.
On Friday, Counseling and Consultation Services provided an email outlining how to schedule in-person appointments for therapeutic support. We know that there is a high need for support right now and some are simply looking for someone to process feelings about this situation. In addition to your normal campus support (CCS, Arnold Health Services, Dean of Students office, faculty advisors, etc), we are offering additional support.
In order to continue to meet your needs, here are four additional options:
- Wayhaven Well-Being Coaching: As part of our Titan HEART grant, we have partnered with Wayhaven Well-Being Support. Wayhaven provides artificial intelligence wellbeing coaches for support anytime, anywhere. We elected an AI option that is specifically trained for wellbeing coaching around life's challenges, while also being clear that it does not replace in-person professional mental health counseling. While Wayhaven will be helpful with this situation, it is also a year-round service that can support students on a variety of issues. To access Wayhaven, visit go.wayhaven.com and create a Wayhaven account for free with your campus email; also available as an iOS app or Android app. Learn more about how Wayhaven works and its privacy protections here.
- Group processing support: Although our Counseling and Consultation Services staff have already met with many groups of students processing the weekend’s events, we recognize the power in group solidarity and processing. Some students may not be official members of a specific group (RSO, team, etc), but may still value group healing opportunities. Students may attend one session, or are free to attend multiple sessions as needed. We are offering group processing sessions as follows:
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- Tuesday, November 10, 7:30pm, sponsored by Good Company Counseling and Coaching, Petrick IDEA Center 227
- Saturday, November 14, 2:00pm, sponsored by Good Company Counseling and Coaching, Petrick IDEA Center 227
- Thursday, November 19th, 6:00pm, sponsored by Counseling and Consultation Services, Petrick IDEA Center 227
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- Faith-based processing: For those of you interested in connecting with a clergy person, we are arranging on-campus individual sessions over the next few weeks. Because this involves coordinating volunteers, this opportunity will be available as soon as possible and promoted on this website as times are confirmed. Sign-up instructions will be provided when these details are finalized.
- Off-campus/virtual options: Bloomington/Normal has off-campus and virtual counseling options through a variety of agencies. An online counselor/therapist database is an option to find therapists in your local city or zip code. Often these counselors/therapists require students to use their insurance to cover the cost of care. If you need help navigating an off-campus counselor and fee structures, please contact Christina Armstrong.
We are grateful for our amazing on-campus mental health professionals at Counseling and Consultation Services and appreciate the partnership of others during this time. If you have any questions, please contact Christina Armstrong, Director of Counseling and Consultation Services, (carmstr1@iwu.edu) or Karla Carney-Hall, Vice President of Student Affairs (kcarneyh@iwu.edu).
Sincerely,
Christina Armstrong, Director of Counseling and Consultation Services
Karla Carney-Hall, Vice President of Student Affairs
Posted Nov. 7, 2026:
We have amazing students who join the Illinois Wesleyan community for an outstanding educational experience and an excellent leadership experience both in and out of class. That promise is our history and our future.
As our community grapples with the fear and anger created by Sunday's shooting, we come together to support one another.
As we continue to lift up our Titan community, we wanted to share a few examples of how this support has taken shape:
Counseling Services:
- Our Counseling Services staff provided walk-in individual counseling sessions on Sunday afternoon for any students in need of support.
- Our professional counselors continue to meet daily with students, both individually and sometimes with group sessions.
- Counselors (both IWU and collaborative partners) and the Dean of Students office have provided many group meetings, including:
- Cheer & Dance
- Phi Gamma Delta
- Softball
- Student Senate
- Flag Football
- Esports/Smash
- School of Nursing (led by faculty)
- Football
- Campus Activities Board
- IFC/Panhellenic
Multi-faith Engagement/Faith-Centered:
- A faith-centered gathering was provided by Campus Outreach for students interested in a faith-based perspective to senseless violence
- The Rev. Molly Ward led a processing group for Professor Greg Shaw’s class.
- 11/2 - All Souls Mass at Holy Cross
- 11/2 - Intervarsity reflection/prayer, community dinner and Bible study
Dean of Students Office/Individual support for students:
- Staff went to both hospitals Sunday evening in support of students and families, and made direct outreach to students who were wounded by gunfire.
- Deans and staff were dispatched to neighborhoods and campus in the early morning hours on Sunday to address immediate student concerns and needs.
- Housing was offered to impacted IWU families while students were hospitalized.
- Students in need of additional support have been identified by peer leaders and have been contacted for meetings with the Deans' office. Staff have met individually with over 40 students.
- Residents of the neighborhood houses where many of the students were displaced during the investigation have been contacted by Dean’s staff and athletic coaches; Students were offered campus housing (temporarily or permanently) as they process this tragedy.
- Deans have responded to parents and family members with questions about the incident and protocols.
- Representatives from Illinois Wesleyan attended the Celebration of Life for Giana Detloff at Glenbard North.
- Athletic coaches reached out to students and families and made practice and workout adjustments in support of students' needs.
Student Engagement/Activities:
- Staff provided walk-in support for student leaders from sororities, fraternities, Student Senate, and other Registered Student Organizations (RSOs).
- The Wrestling team and TKE passed out donuts on the quad. A swim athlete made treats with notes to pass out at Shirk.
- Advisors to the Student Senate continue to support the Student Senate Executive Board/General Assembly, Panhellenic Council, and Interfraternity Council during scheduled meetings.
- 11/5 - Sodexo sponsored cookies/hot chocolate/cider on the quad for all students.
- The Student Athletics Advisory Committee is planning a Titan Community Movie night for Sunday, Nov. 8 at Shirk.
- External groups: Several community activities will continue with a clear sense that we want to be together because we are Better Together.
- Saturday’s football game will feature a Salute to Service with the BPD Color Guard and recognition of first responders.
- A pink ribbon campaign on 11/5 demonstrated solidarity with North Central College.
- The School of Business and Economics hosted therapy dogs on 11/4
- Fraternity and Sorority Life groups have been offered support, and many connected with their international headquarters for support
Campus Safety/BPD:
- Daily campus safety escorts are provided on an ongoing basis by student request.
- Increased, visible patrols continue throughout campus.
- A planned annual Campus Safety Walk was postponed out of sensitivity to students’ wellbeing, but information was collected so that administrative staff could continue to identify issues such as lighting, landscaping, visibility, or accessible communication strategies.
- There are three layers of on-call support for campus emergencies – Campus Safety (24/7/365); Residence Life (when students are on campus), and Dean of Student Affairs (24/7/365)
Office of Residential Life:
- 24/7 on-call staff were among the first on the scene supporting students on Sunday morning.
- Professional staff have been performing wellness checks on students in their residential areas.
- Several mandatory floor meetings, personal check-ins and open space gatherings have been held.
- Other activities included a coloring and cookies event, movie night, affirmations events, and a self-care information session.
Academics:
- Classes were held on Monday to allow students to gather in community and process the incidents of the weekend. Some faculty canceled class, others used the time to process in small groups. Many delayed exams or assignments.
- Faculty were provided resources to lead discussion and reflection.
- Students needing extensions on assignments or rescheduled exams were provided this flexibility.
- Some lectures and activities were cancelled due to sensitivity to topics and timing.
- Faculty academic advisors were encouraged to extend our standard advising period for registration.
Employees and first responders
- Human Resources arranged for Employee Assistance Program counseling staff to come to campus for group processing and discussion.
- Employees were reminded of ongoing EAP counseling resources available to themselves and their immediate families.
Communications:
- Some operational communications with students have been delayed, such as bill reminders and notifications.
- Students are reminded that they do not need to speak with members of the media if they feel uncomfortable doing so.
Campus Updates
Nov. 6, 2026 1:51 PM
Understanding Your Counseling Appointment Options at IWU
- Online Scheduling: Students seeking counseling for the first time can use the scheduling link to view available initial appointments. Please note: The appointments shown online are not the only appointments available at CCS.
- Additional Appointment Availability: If you do not see an appointment that works with your schedule, or if no appointments are listed, please contact our office directly by phone (309-556-3052) or email (counselingservices@iwu.edu). We may have additional appointment options that are not visible through online scheduling.
- Urgent or Crisis Support: CCS also maintains appointment availability for students experiencing urgent mental health concerns. These appointments are not displayed through the online scheduling link. If you need more immediate support, please contact our office directly so we can help determine the most appropriate next steps.
- Group Support Sessions: In response to the recent events on campus, students, student organizations, athletic teams, and other campus groups may request group support sessions. These sessions provide an opportunity to come together, process reactions, and receive support in a facilitated setting.
- Additional Resources and Referrals: We are also available to discuss other mental health resources based on your individual needs, including referrals to community providers or higher levels of care when additional or more specialized support may be beneficial.
Nov. 5, 2026 5:06 PM
Students, faculty and staff,
We have all been feeling a range of emotions in the wake of Sunday's senseless act of violence. Horror, grief, anger, outrage, numbness, shock — and feelings beyond words.
I believe what will help us get through this is love and care for others and, eventually, gratitude for others, reaching out to help those around you who are suffering.
From the onset of this tragic event, our primary focus is supporting our students, faculty, and staff with the care and resources to help navigate this difficult time. We have shared with students and employees the ongoing counseling and support services available to them through the University.
Many small group gatherings have been held since Sunday, and I have been incredibly grateful to hear directly from students about what they need and how they are feeling. I am more convinced than ever that we have absolutely the best students with the biggest hearts on any campus anywhere.
We have been and remain in regular communication with law enforcement agencies as their active investigation progresses. The Bloomington Police shared this update this afternoon about their investigation and the condition of Sunday's victims.
We remain committed to sharing updates with the campus community on the Ongoing Campus Updates banner on our website.
Bloomington Police have stated there is no information to suggest any ongoing threat to the Illinois Wesleyan University campus, our students, or the surrounding neighborhood. As we continue to actively monitor our campus for everyone's safety, we have enhanced Bloomington police and Campus Safety patrols and are maintaining additional security cameras.
I am humbled by the support shown across our Titan community this past week. My faith has been strengthened that we are better together. And as always, my door is open for anyone who would like to come visit.
Nov. 5, 2026
Illinois Wesleyan University and Quincy University invite our campus communities to wear pink today in solidarity with North Central College as its community comes together to honor the life of Giana Dettloff.
As Giana's family, friends and the North Central community navigate this profound loss, we stand with them in remembrance and support. We hope this small gesture serves as a reminder that they are surrounded by communities who care.
Today, we wear pink for Giana and in support of everyone whose lives have been impacted by this tragedy.
— IWU students can pick up pink ribbons beginning at 11:30 a.m. today in the Memorial Center lobby, between the stairs leading up to the dining hall. —
Submit Crime Tips to Bloomington Police Department
The Bloomington Police Department has provided a Community Portal for potential evidence related to this incident. Students and other community members can submit digital evidence anonymously to the portal by visiting this link.
Campus Updates
Nov. 2, 2026, 7:00 PM
Video: Bloomington Police Press Conference
Remarks from Bloomington Police Chief - Nov. 2 Press Conference
Online update:
The Bloomington Police Department has confirmed that nine individuals were injured during the incident early Sunday morning. One individual, a student from North Central College, tragically lost her life, while eight others sustained injuries.
We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends and the entire North Central community as they navigate this immeasurable loss. Our thoughts are also with everyone who was injured and all those impacted by this tragedy.
BPD has confirmed that the incident took place on private property in close proximity to IWU’s campus. The Bloomington Police Department’s investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who was in attendance or may have information related to the incident is encouraged to share that information with investigators. Contact information for BPD can be found in their latest press release.
As members of our University community continue to process this news, we want to share an opportunity for students to connect and find support in the days ahead:
- School of Business and Economics Therapy Dogs, Wednesday, 2:30 p.m. in the State Farm Hall Lobby: Students are welcome to spend time with therapy dogs and take a moment for some comfort and care.
- Additional support resources remain available to students through the university. We encourage anyone who may need support to reach out and take advantage of the resources available to them. Please visit this link for more information.
As we navigate this unprecedented event, we believe our strength comes from being better together as a university community.
Nov. 2, 2026, 2:43 PM
Counseling support for faculty and staff
Faculty and staff,
In light of the tragic events that occurred near campus this weekend, we want to make sure our faculty and staff are aware of the counseling and support services available to them. We recognize that events like this can affect each of us differently, and we encourage anyone who would find these resources helpful to take advantage of them.
On-Campus Counseling – Wednesday, November 4
We have arranged for Thelma Carpenter Ellis, LCPC, to be on campus on Wednesday, November 4, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in CLA, Room 101.
The session will begin at 2:30 p.m. with a 40–60 minute group discussion focused on processing the recent events, coping with trauma and grief, and caring for ourselves and one another.
Following the group discussion, Thelma will be available for individual, private conversations of approximately 15–20 minutes each, through 4:30 p.m.
There is no need to register in advance, and employees are welcome to attend the group session, meet individually with Thelma, or both.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Available 24/7
As a reminder, all employees also have access to counseling and support through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Counselors are available by phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Phone: 800-252-4555
- Website: https://www.theeap.com/
Counseling: Our EAP provides up to four counseling sessions for employees.
Employees can call at any time to speak with a counselor or to arrange additional counseling services. We have also attached information about the program and available resources.
Please know that your well-being is important to us. This has been a difficult time for our campus community, and we want to make sure everyone knows that support is available.
Take care of yourselves and one another.
Human Resources
Nov. 1, 2026, 7:24 PM
Evelyn Chapel Community Gathering Tomorrow
Students, faculty and staff,
Evelyn Chapel will be open tomorrow (Monday) from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Trenton Hatfield from Campus Outreach, as well as Pastor Caponigro from Harvest Church will be present. Anyone is welcome and people can talk, pray or just reflect in the space. There will be light refreshments as well.
Emily Purdy
Multifaith Engagement Coordinator
Nov. 1, 2026, 7:20 PM
Important Message from Provost Miles (Students)
Students,
In the wake of this morning's tragic events, we have held many conversations with students and many groups have met with Counseling Services. We believe that routine with flexibility can provide community, consistency, and value.
To provide support and consistency, classes will continue tomorrow. At the same time, we understand that many of you will need flexibility as you process this tragedy. Please take that time and access resources as you need them. If you need support and do not know how to access it, then please consult Counseling Services.
Faculty are being given resources to help connect you with support you may need and are being asked to be flexible with their classroom policies regarding mental health days and assignments.
We will get through this together, and we will work to make sure every member of the Titan community is cared for during this difficult time. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns as we move through this tragic time.
Nov. 1, 2026, 5:50 PM
Important Message from Provost Miles (Faculty)
Faculty,
As you have seen in university communication, there was a tragic event early this morning. There are no words to begin a note to faculty in a time like this, but I am writing to let you know what I can about the current situation.
There was an active shooter incident last night that impacted several of our students, two with non-life-threatening injuries. Our incident response, led by Dean Karla Carney-Hall, was immediate. Dean Karla has done a tremendous job in collaboration with incident response to lead this effort. I encourage you to consider your classroom policy about mental health absences as that may also come into play over the next few days.
Those students directly affected by this incident, and the groups they are connected to, are getting the help they need today and throughout this week. We know that our classrooms can provide spaces where students find community, consistency, and value. As we return to a routine with flexibility, some students will need help as they process this situation over time, and some may not return to class immediately. You are not being asked to provide care directly, but you will be given resources to get them the help they need.
Because we believe that routine with flexibility is important, we are holding classes tomorrow. We are providing resources for faculty to manage conversations that may come up in their classes if needed. Becky Roesner will be sending that out shortly. If you are concerned about a student's well-being or believe they may benefit from additional support, please encourage them to contact Counseling and Consultation Services.
We will get through this together, and we will work to make sure every member of the Titan community is cared for during this difficult time.
John Miles
Provost and Dean of Faculty
Nov 1, 2026, 4:50 PM
A Message from President Zenger
Students, parents, faculty and staff,
I'm reaching out with a heavy heart as we all face the horrific, unprecedented events that occurred near our campus Sunday morning. I want to take a moment as a community as together we face a certain loss of innocence and sense of personal safety.
Our sympathies are with our students and others who were injured in this senseless act that tragically took the life of a young woman. I hope everyone finds a way to give weight to this event and takes the time to find the support they need.
I also want to thank the first responders who were on the scene to care for those who were injured and to respond for the safety of our community. Our Campus Safety department, Dean of Students Office, Student Involvement, and Residence Life staff were among our campus responders who assisted Bloomington Police and local Emergency Medical Services.
We all know other schools and universities have been through similar tragedies, but there isn't a true roadmap for this. However, we know it begins with caring for one another and taking time to recognize the resilience of our community. In the coming days as we walk through this trying time, we rely on our collective strength that comes from within. We will find our way together.
President Zenger
Nov. 1, 2026, 11:11 AM
Counseling Resources Available Today
To the campus community,
As we all navigate the aftermath of last night's incident, we want to make several resources available to students. Our Counseling and Consultation services office (lower level Magill Hall) will be available this afternoon for 30-minute appointments for any students wishing to process last night’s event. Appointments will be walk-in only at the following times:
1:00 p.m. - 4 appts
1:30 p.m. - 4 appts
2:00 p.m. - 4 appts
2:30 p.m. - 4 appts
3:00 p.m. - 2 appts
3:30 p.m. - 2 appts
Several groups are planning meetings for further discussion today. Please check with your group leadership to confirm meeting times and locations.
We continue to work with other impacted organizations and individuals to arrange time to support your individual and group needs. Please contact Christina Armstrong (carmstr1@iwu.edu) if you’d like to arrange a group session in the near future.
Bloomington Police continue to investigate this shooting incident. If you have video footage, images or information, please contact Detective Pedro Diaz, 309-434-2532 or pdias@cityblm.org. BPD continues to identify leads.
Dean Karla
Nov. 1, 2026, 8:23 AM
Update on Shooting Incident Near Campus
At approximately 1:30 a.m. Sunday, November 1, 2026, eight individuals were shot near Kelsey and East Street, including two IWU students with non-life-threatening injuries. Our hearts go out to all affected by this tragic event. There is no ongoing threat to campus.
Bloomington Police continue to investigate this shooting incident, which occurred near campus. If you have video footage, images or information, please contact Detective Pedro Diaz, 309-434-2532 or pdiaz@cityblm.org. BPD continues to identify leads.
We are working closely with campus communities today to arrange time to gather and process these events.
Students are encouraged to reach out to Counseling and Consultation Services for support. They have availability today and throughout the coming days.
Further updates will be posted here.
If you have any further questions about campus response, please contact Campus Safety (309-556-1111) or the Dean of Students office (309-556-3111).
Nov 1, 1:43 AM
Shooting Reported
IWU Alert:
A shooting is reported at housing on North East Street at the intersection of East Kelsey St. Please avoid the area. Police and Campus Safety are responding. Report any suspicious activity to Bloomington Police or Campus Safety.
Nov 1, 1:32 AM
Police Response on Campus
IWU Alert:
Police are responding to an emergency situation in the Third Base housing area. Please steer clear of the area. Further information will be coming.