Bend Campus Activates Round the Clock Patrols After Seven-Day Surge in Violence

Two sexual assaults reported in seven days have forced Oregon State University Cascades to shift its security posture. Campus safety staff now work twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, a change implemented in direct response to incidents in the university's only residential hall.

The assaults were reported on Oct. 8 and Oct. 10. University officials stated in a letter to students that the victims did not know their assailants. Investigations into both incidents remain open. These events occurred alongside a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School, a public school located a few miles from the campus. The three incidents happened within a seven-day window, creating a concentrated period of local violence.

Charlie Woekel, president of the Associated Students of Cascades Campus, presented the situation to the OSU Board of Trustees at its meeting on Friday. He noted that the rapid succession of events left students worried about their physical, sexual, and emotional safety. Woekel said the student body has been unified in its response, helping one another navigate the shock. Student leaders are now urging campus partners to re-examine and expand emergency protocols. This includes updating procedures for active shooter scenarios and improving awareness of sexual violence prevention resources.

The local impact on daily operations was immediate. OSU-Cascades closed on the Friday following the shooting and reopened for classes at the start of the current week. Bend-La Pine Schools remained closed, with Silver Rail Elementary staying shut indefinitely. On campus, student leaders set up letter-writing stations to send messages of support to the school's parent-teacher organization. Student employees at the campus Makerspace lab built an engraved memorial shrine. Student Health and Wellness and the Student Counseling Center opened confidential drop-in sessions for anyone affected, whether directly or indirectly.

Interim Chancellor and Dean Christine Pollard sent messages to students following the assault reports. She wrote that creating a safe campus community is a shared responsibility and encouraged students to look out for one another. Her communications included lists of confidential and non-confidential resources for those affected by sexual violence. Board of Trustees Chair Karla Chambers addressed the hurt felt by the OSU family after the shooting. She stated that the entire OSU family stands with the Bend community and acknowledged that the healing process will take time.

Support resources remain available for those affected. The National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 800-656-4673 or via online text chat. Confidential crisis counseling is available around the clock through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990. Spanish-language support is available by pressing 2.