UNF boosts security in wake of Kirk’s assassination, national campus threats

UNF Deputy Police Chief Adam Brown said the university has implemented new security measures in wake of Kirk’s assassination and increased threats at other schools.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination and with campus threats now making national headlines, many are questioning whether future events on college campuses can be kept safe.

At the University of North Florida (UNF), which has an active Turning Point USA chapter and regularly welcomes students, staff and community members through its doors, First Coast News asked, “Is it still safe to be on campus?”

According to UNF officials, the answer is yes. Campus police are on duty 24/7, and security presence has been heightened in response to recent events.

UNF is scheduled to host a guest speaker Saturday morning for an ‘Art and Technology Roundtable’ on campus.

In a statement, UNF Deputy Police Chief Adam Brown said the university has implemented new security measures in light of increased threats and shootings reported at other colleges across the country.

“In an effort to keep our campus community safe, the UNF Police Department regularly conducts various safety trainings, updates emergency response plans and procedures, and ensures that safety resources are easily accessible through our website and the Safe Ospreys app.”

Brown urges everyone to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. He encourages anyone who notices suspicious activity to contact the University Police Department immediately.

The last shooting incident on UNF’s campus occurred in September 2017. A student was arrested and was charged with multiple felonies after firing a gun in a dormitory.

“The safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors is a top priority at the University of North Florida,” Brown said. “We are committed to maintaining a secure and welcoming campus for all.”

In case of an emergency on campus, call 911. For non-emergencies, contact the UNF Police Department at (904) 620-2800. Crimes can also be reported confidentially through UPD’s Silent Witness program.