The ongoing manhunt for the second suspect in the Boston Marathon terror bombings earlier this week as well as the overnight shooting that killed an MIT police officer have led to the closings of a number of Boston-area colleges for the time being on Friday – affecting thousands upon thousands of students, faculty members, administrators and others.
At least 17 colleges and universities in the area have announced closings for the day.
Most of the colleges have posted notices on their websites urging students to stay inside their dorms until further notice.
Here’s a sampling of some of the college messages as of Friday morning at 10:45 a.m.:
MIT:
‘Classes Cancelled Today’
MIT suffered a tragedy last night: an MIT Police officer was shot and killed on our campus in the line of duty. We have posted a brief news story with further details.
While the circumstances around the officer’s death remain the subject of an active investigation, what is certain is that the officer gave his life to defend the peace of our campus. His sacrifice will never be forgotten by the Institute. We are thinking now of his family, and our hearts are heavy.
In consultation with faculty chair Sam Allen, we have decided to cancel classes today (Friday). All employees are encouraged to use their best judgment about whether they are prepared to come in to work today: any absence today will be considered excused.
MIT is working now to plan a gathering later today on campus. Once we have determined the time and place, we will communicate with you all.
President Reif is en route home from international travel and will be back with us on campus this evening. We know he will want to be in touch with the community when he returns, and will have his own message to share.
Harvard University:
‘The University Will Remain Closed for the Day’
Events continue to unfold in the ongoing law enforcement search for an armed and dangerous suspect in an area not far from the Cambridge/Allston campus. The governor and law enforcement have urged people in Boston, Cambridge, Waltham, Watertown and several other nearby towns to stay inside.
Given the ongoing nature of the investigation and public safety concerns, Harvard University will remain closed all day Friday.
The Harvard University Police Department continues to maintain a significantly heightened security presence and will continue to monitor the situation closely. If members of the Harvard community see anything out of the ordinary, they should contact the HUPD at (617) 495-1212.
Boston Baptist College:
‘Our Campus Is Closed and All Activities Are Delayed Until Further Notice’
Boston College:
‘All Services Are Currently Suspended’
Emerson College:
‘Closed Until Further Notice’
The MBTA is shut down. The governor has declared for everyone in Boston to shelter in place.
Get indoors.
Shut and lock all doors and window(s).
Stay inside until informed that it’s safe to go outside.
Follow instructions of emergency personnel.
