08/19/2025
Crete, Neb. — At approximately 8:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 19, Doane University received a report of a possible armed suspect in the restroom of the Communications Building on the Crete
campus. Campus has since received the “all clear”.
Doane Campus Security immediately issued a lockout/secure notice to all faculty, staff and students, instructing everyone to remain inside secured buildings. Crete Police Department
officers along with the Saline County Sheriff’s office, arrived on scene within minutes of the initial report and promptly assessed the situation.
As of 9:18 a.m., Public Safety officials confirmed that all campus buildings are secure. The Communications Building remained under lockout/secure as part of the procedure while law
enforcement continued to monitor the situation. Approximately 15 officers responded to the scene.
As of 9:41 a.m., Public Safety officials declared an “all clear”. Law enforcement determined the incident was a potential “swatting” incident — a false report intended to trigger a large emergency response.
“At this time, there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the campus or community,” Sheriff Moore stated.
“We are grateful for the rapid response from the Crete Police Department, Saline County Sheriff’s office, and for the cooperation of our students, faculty, and staff,” said Russ Hewitt,
Doane University’s public safety director. “We will continue to monitor the situation in collaboration with local law enforcement.”
Doane officials noted that the university’s mobile ID system, which allows buildings to be secured remotely within seconds, played a key role in the response. The system has proven to
be a valuable asset in enhancing campus security and ensuring a swift, coordinated security protocol during potential emergencies.
Doane University’s highest priority is ensuring the safety and security of its students, faculty, and staff. The university will continue working closely with local law enforcement to review the
response and strengthen campus safety procedures.
