Campus entrance sign with pond and amphitheater in background.

Police confirm two dead following shooting on Penn State Beaver campus

MONACA, Pa. – Pennsylvania State Police are conducting an investigation following the shooting deaths of two non-students on Penn State Beaver’s campus in western Pennsylvania. In what police are calling a case of domestic violence, a male allegedly shot Penn State food services employee Lesli Kelly before turning the gun on himself on the afternoon of Dec. 13, 2017. The incident took place in a parking lot near the campus food services building. Authorities confirm the threat has ended, however, the campus remains closed while the investigation continues. Additional details will be released as they become available.
 
Students who live on campus are being asked to remain in the residence hall until campus reopens on Thursday. All commuter students, faculty and non-essential employees have been sent home. Many administrators have remained on campus and are with the resident students.

The campus will reopen at 8 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14 at which time counselors will be on site and available to students, staff and faculty. Both housing and food services will operate as usual.

The campus has postponed finals scheduled for Thursday to Friday at the same time and location. If you cannot take your Thursday final on Friday, contact Academic Affairs at [email protected] before 5 p.m. on Thursday to schedule taking your final the first week of January.

Extra officers will be on campus from Pennsylvania State Police and there will be an increased police presence in the coming days.
 
“Our entire Penn State community is profoundly saddened by the tragedy at the Beaver campus. Our deepest sympathies go to the victim’s family and friends during this very difficult time, and our thoughts and prayers are with the Beaver community,” said Penn State President Eric J. Barron. “The security and safety of our faculty, staff and students is our top concern. As we mourn this terrible loss, I want to remind members of the campus community that counselors are available to help those struggling to cope with this tragedy.”
 
Penn State Beaver Chancellor Jenifer Cushman released a statement to the Beaver campus community immediately following the incident.
 
“There was a tragic act of violence at Penn State Beaver this afternoon which did not involve students. Our thoughts are with all who have been affected,” said Cushman. “Please know that the threat has ended, and that your safety and security remain our number one priority. Our campus police are vigilant; please avoid the student union building and food services area until further notice. We understand this is a traumatic event for our campus community. Students, faculty and staff who may be in need should contact counseling services at 724-773-3961.”