Enhanced Security Measures Implemented At Bowie State University As Classes Resume

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — As homecoming celebrations wrapped up at Bowie State University, a shooting rattled the campus.

Now, BSU leaders have vowed to increase security and implement new measures as students and staff return to classes Monday.

"Addressing safety on the Bowie State University campus remain paramount in our planning efforts as we resume classes on Monday, Oct. 16. I want to assure you that the university has reviewed our existing safety measures and implemented adjustments to heighten the presence of security personnel and improve our security systems. Our top priority is to create an environment where we all feel safe while preserving the sense of a welcoming community," the university stated.

Bowie State President Aminta Breaux expressed her distress over the shooting during a press conference held Sunday morning.

“For a week, our campus was filled with nothing but happiness and joy,” Breaux said. “Our campus community is very much a peaceful community. This is not normal for Bowie State University.”

An increased presence of police and security officers with support from local police agencies and security services were implemented over the weekend. BSU police officers will patrol campus grounds and buildings. Surveillance of campus entrances has been enhanced, as well, including at the following points:

• Gate access via Loop Road - Guard House Entry
• Staffed 24 hours by armed security with license plate readers scanning all cars
• Gate closes at 5 p.m. daily (changed from 11 p.m.) with a Bulldog card required for entry or driver’s license for non-BSU persons.

• Gate access via Loop Road at MARC Station and Henry Circle
• Staffed 24 hours by armed security to monitor campus entries
• Gate near MARC Station closes at 5 p.m. (change from 6 p.m.)
• Gate at Henry Circle remains open until 11 p.m. to allow access to Metro Buses and university shuttles

The university also has upgraded some of its existing electronic system to support safety and security, while others are in the works:

• The Bowie Electronic Emergency System (BEES) has been updated to now include all current students, faculty and staff using information in the student or employee record. The registration will not expire as long as you are at the university.
• Enhanced surveillance camera system with facial recognition is in place at all campus entry points, building entrances and other high traffic indoor and outdoor locations. Other locations are planned.
• Nineteen emergency blue light phones have been installed throughout the campus to enable immediate connection to campus police.
• Installation of automatic building locks equipped with card reader access has been completed for academic classroom buildings, the library and Henry Administration. Other buildings are in the process of being fitted with these locks.
• Installation of automatic locks with card reader access has begun to help secure classrooms.

Other measures are being considered to improve campus safety and threat preparedness, including:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Weapons Detection System
• Assessment of enhanced perimeter fencing to control access points onto the campus
• Assessment of ShotSpotter, a gunshot detection system for implementation
• Assessment of metal detectors in residential housing
• Upgrade of all campus exterior lighting to LED
• Additional license plate readers throughout campus
• Active Shooter Attack Prevention and Preparedness training for faculty, staff and students.

"We must all remember that everyone has a role to play in keeping our campus safe. Immediately report any suspicious activity to Campus Police at 301-860-4040 or activate Blue Light phones for immediate contact with BSU Police. Wear your Bulldog Card when on campus to be easily identified as a member of our community,"

Read more:

• Enhanced Security Measures Implemented At Bowie State University
• Classes Canceled For Rest Of The Week At Bowie State After Shooting