FBI 'Aware' of Bomb Threats to Colleges

The FBI acknowledged it is “aware” of the recent rash of bomb threats to colleges across the country and said it is willing to lend a hand if local police agencies ask for help.

“We are aware of recent incidents at some area colleges and universities, and we remain in touch with our law enforcement partners to provide assistance if needed,” said Joan M. Hyde, the spokeswoman for the FBI’s Chicago office.

“As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities,” Hyde said.

Buildings on Northern Illinois University’s campus in DeKalb — including branch campus buildings — were evacuated Thursday evening after the school received a telephoned bomb threat about 6 p.m. Later that night, the university issued a statement that the threat appeared to be nothing more than a hoax.

Also Thursday night, a bomb threat was made to DePaul University’s O’Hare campus. The building was evacuated, searched and cleared for re-entry.

Three days earlier, a bomb threat was made against the College of DuPage, forcing the cancellation of classes. That threat was also determined to be a hoax.

Elsewhere Thursday night, bomb threats were reported at Rogue Community College in Oregon and the University of Maine at Augusta.