Campus Leaders, Lawmakers Meet on Safety in Upstate NY

Leaders Meet with Officials as Investigation Remains Active

The SUNY Morrisville community continues to process the fear and uncertainty that followed a recent shooting on campus. Weeks later, as students and faculty work to regain a sense of normalcy, the investigation remains active as of Nov. 28, with New York State Police still seeking witness cooperation and requesting information from the public.

Against this backdrop, Senator Joseph Griffo and Assemblyman Robert Angelino visited SUNY Morrisville to meet with officials, hear updates directly from campus leadership and law enforcement, and explore ways to strengthen safety moving forward.

Swift Response to a Terrifying Moment

When the shooting occurred, the impact was immediate. SUNY Morrisville went into lockdown, police secured the area, and emergency responders from across the region converged on campus. Authorities later described the incident as an “isolated dispute between individuals familiar with one another,” but emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.

Throughout the tense early hours, Senator Griffo and Assemblyman Angelino remained in contact with SUNY Chancellor King, College President Rogers, and state and campus police. They made the strategic decision not to visit the scene immediately so that law enforcement could work without distraction.

“In moments like this, investigators must have full focus,” they said. “We did not want our presence to interfere with the active investigation.”

A Deliberate Visit Focused on Understanding and Support

On Wednesday, Nov. 5, after the initial response stabilized, the lawmakers traveled to the campus. They met with President Rogers, state and campus police leadership, and the president of the Student Government Organization.

The visit was centered on listening — not on cameras or headlines.

“This was an important opportunity to receive updates, hear concerns directly from campus leaders, and discuss ways we and the state can support SUNY Morrisville now and in the future,” they said.

Their discussions included the status of the investigation, student safety concerns, and the kinds of resources campuses need to prevent future incidents.

Exploring Technology, Resources, and Policy Improvements

With the investigation still active and no arrest announced as of Nov. 28, attention has shifted toward long-term solutions.

Senator Griffo and Assemblyman Angelino said they are evaluating additional technologies, expanded resources, and potential policy adjustments that could strengthen safety across SUNY campuses. Possibilities range from improved security infrastructure to enhanced emergency communications, mental-health support, and system-wide safety evaluations.

Their goal is simple and urgent:
to help protect the SUNY community — not only at Morrisville, but across New York.

A Campus Interwoven With Its Community

SUNY Morrisville is a cornerstone of the surrounding region, contributing to local business, culture, and community life. Ensuring safety is not just about safeguarding students and faculty — it’s about maintaining the village’s confidence and wellbeing.

The lawmakers emphasized that they will continue to work closely with college officials and community members as the investigation continues.

“As SUNY Morrisville moves forward, we remain committed to making sure everyone on campus and in the surrounding area feels safe, supported, and secure,” they said.

While the investigation proceeds, collaboration among campus leadership, local officials, and law enforcement remains essential to restoring confidence and strengthening protections for all.