Local News
Clark State College in Springfield will operate virtually after multiple shooting and bomb threats
Clark State College is committed to the safety of our entire community. We received concerning emails over the weekend, one mentioning a potential shooting and another a bomb threat on the Springfield campus. We immediately contacted the Springfield Police Department, who have confirmed the campus is secure.
Out of an abundance of caution:
- All classes will be conducted virtually for the week of September 16-20.
- All campuses will be closed.
- Employees will work from home.
- All activities are cancelled, including the Rhodes Hall Open House (which will be rescheduled).
We understand this news may be unsettling. We are taking this situation very seriously and are committed to minimizing disruption to your education. Here’s what you can expect:
- Increased Security Presence: Springfield Police will be on campus more frequently.
- Expanded Counseling Services: Our wellness team and partners are providing additional support resources.
- Minimal Educational Disruption: We will work to ensure a smooth transition to virtual learning.
Your Safety is Our Priority:
We are dedicated to providing a safe and secure learning environment. If you see or hear anything concerning, please report it to Johnny Lemen at [email address removed] or 937-328-3855.
For any further questions, please contact Erika Daggett at [email address removed].
Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Together, we will navigate this situation safely and effectively.
An aviation incident involving a United Airlines aircraft was reported Tuesday at Washington Dulles International Airport, prompting an emergency response and temporary operational disruptions.
According to preliminary information, United Airlines Flight 803 (UA803), a Boeing 777 scheduled to operate from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), experienced an engine malfunction during takeoff.
Reports indicate the incident involved an engine blowout or engine fire shortly after departure, which led to debris and heat igniting multiple brush fires near the runway.
Airport fire and rescue units, along with multiple supporting fire departments, were immediately dispatched to the airfield.
Fire crews worked to extinguish brush fires reported near Runway 1C, while airport operations focused on securing the affected areas and maintaining safety.
Following the engine issue, the aircraft entered a holding pattern to dump fuel in accordance with safety procedures before making an emergency return to Dulles.
Smoke was visible near the runway area as firefighters addressed the ground fires. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
The aircraft later landed safely at Dulles International Airport.
Emergency personnel remained on scene following the landing to ensure the situation was fully stabilized.
Some unconfirmed information circulating indicates that the same aircraft may have experienced an engine-related issue earlier this year, on June 21, 2025.
Officials have not verified this information, and no connection has been established between that reported incident and Tuesday’s event.
The Federal Aviation Administration, United Airlines, and airport officials are expected to conduct a full investigation to determine the cause of the engine malfunction and the resulting brush fires.
This remains an active investigation, and additional verified details will be released as they become available.