The University's Department of Public Safety (DPS) has determined that a hammer hitting a chisel during a repair on Nassau Hall was the likely sound that was interpreted as gunshots and reported to them on Tuesday, Oct. 8.
While conducting its follow-up investigation, DPS learned that about 20 minutes before the call was made Tuesday evening, a maintenance worker was using a hammer and chisel to fix a door on Nassau Hall. The worker made the repair and left the building before an employee inside the building called to report the sound to DPS. DPS determined that it is highly likely that the sound of the hammer hitting the chisel was interpreted as a gunshot. The matter is now closed.
"We take all reports from our community extremely seriously," said Paul Ominsky, DPS executive director. "The response and collaboration from my team, the Princeton Police Department and others throughout this incident were outstanding."
Ominsky noted that campus members are encouraged to report concerning behaviors following the Homeland Security advice -- "If you see something, say something." DPS has officers and dispatchers on duty 24 hours each day, 7 days each week. DPS can be reached at (609) 258-1000 or (609) 258-3333 for emergencies.
