Crime
Suspicious device detonated on Utah State University Campus, building cleared
UPDATE: A suspicious device was found near the exterior of Old Main. University and Local law enforcement were dispatched to the scene.
A device was located and deemed to be a non-explosive device.
Out of an abundance of caution, the bomb squad detonated the suspicious device.
Old Main building is now clear and safe.
All scheduled events may resume as normal.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
Logan, Utah — Authorities ordered the evacuation of Old Main, the historic central building on the Utah State University (USU) Logan campus, on Tuesday following reports of a possible bomb threat.
Police just yelled “fire in the hole” three times before we all heard an explosion.”
According to a university safety alert, a suspicious package was discovered inside the Old Main building, prompting campus police to take immediate precautionary measures.
Students, faculty, and staff were instructed to evacuate the building without delay.
The official USU emergency message directed those inside to:
- Leave immediately through the nearest exit.
- Use stairs instead of elevators.
- Take only essential items.
- Proceed to designated departmental evacuation areas, if applicable.
- Follow all instructions from emergency personnel on the scene.
Law enforcement and emergency response teams remain at the site to secure the building and assess the package.
The area around Old Main has been closed off while the investigation continues.
The evacuation occurred just hours before a Turning Point USA event scheduled on campus, though officials have not confirmed whether the two incidents are connected.
University officials have urged the campus community to avoid the area until further notice.
Additional updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.