Tufts University Ramps Up Security Across Campuses After Bomb Threats

MEDFORD, MA — Tufts University has increased security and shared support opportunities for community members across its campuses after a spate of bomb threats against its Medford/Somerville community in recent days.

An investigation is ongoing at Tufts — which spans sites in Medford, Somerville, Boston and Grafton — University President Tony Monaco said in an update Monday.

“The investigation of these threats will take some time and the nature of the investigation prevents us from disclosing much at this time,” Monaco said. “However, I want to assure you that we are doing everything we can to identify the culprits while keeping our community safe.”

Threats began last week, prompting evacuations and searches at the Tufts Medford/Somerville campus. The campus evacuated buildings again on Monday after another bomb threat, according to officials.

Tufts’ student newspaper, Tufts Daily, reported on Tuesday morning that the university had warned of a yet another threat, though the university had not shared any public alert on the topic as of 10 a.m.

In each incident through Monday, officials found no bombs or any other suspicious objects, Monaco said.

READ: No Threats Identified After Tufts Medford/Somerville Bomb Threat

Nevertheless, Monaco said Tufts authorities “continue to remain alert and vigilant,” now running increased patrols and security measures at their Medford/Somerville site as well as at Grafton and Boston facilities.

Tufts, Monaco continued, is working with all relevant agencies to continue an investigation into these threats.

Multiple news outlets including Boston.com previously reported threats mentioning diversity, equity and inclusion work at Tufts.

Monaco confirmed some of those details this week.

“Several of the threats have included messages indicating that the emailer(s) are opposed to: our university values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ); the hard work we have done collectively; and the much-needed and difficult conversations within our institution to move forward as a diverse and inclusive community, and as active citizens in our wider society,” Monaco said.

Monaco said investigators have noted that language in these emails does not necessarily mean that anger over diversity, equity, inclusion and justice initiatives at Tufts is the actual cause of recent threats.

Still, he said the threats have been “unnerving,” particularly to those closely involved in Tufts’ diversity, equity, inclusion and justice work.

“We understand the deep anxiety and fear that you have been experiencing—we are here for you,” Monaco said.

Monaco ultimately said anyone with concerns linked to recent events at Tufts should reach out to available recourses including:

• The University Chaplaincy
• Counseling and Mental Health Services (CMHS)
• Ears for Peers
• The Division of Student Diversity and Inclusion
• The International Center
• The Medford/Somerville Dean of Student Affairs Office

Individuals can also reach out to a counselor-on-call available 24/7 by phone at 617-627-3360.

Faculty and staff and connect with the Tufts Employee Assistance Program and/or the University Chaplaincy for needed support.

Anyone seeing or experiencing anything “out of the ordinary” should contact the the Tufts University Police Department, Monaco said.

While Tufts has canceled exams in recent days due to threats beginning last week, the campus remains open.

Writing on Monday, Monaco looked to the future.

“The past few days have not been easy,” he said. “They have been especially difficult on our colleagues of color and those involved actively in DEIJ efforts, as we move together towards a brighter and more inclusive future.”

“We will do all we can to keep our community safe and protected so that together we can deliver on this important mission,” he said.