Officials: Hammer Hitting Chisel Likely Source Of Gunshot Sound At Princeton University
PRINCETON, N.J., (CBS) – Princeton University says the Department of Public Safety has determined that a hammer hitting a chisel during a repair on Nassau Hall was the likely sound that was interpreted as gunshots and reported to them on Tuesday (see related story).
While conducting its follow-up investigation, DPS says that about 20 minutes before the call was made Tuesday evening, a maintenance worker was using a hammer and chisel to fix a door on Nassau Hall. DPS says the worker made the repair and left the building before an employee inside the building called to report the sound to DPS.
DPS determined that it is highly likely that the sound of the hammer hitting the chisel was interpreted as a gunshot.
The University says the matter is now closed.
"We take all reports from our community extremely seriously," said Paul Ominsky, DPS executive director in a statement. "The response and collaboration from my team, the Princeton Police Department and others throughout this incident were outstanding."
Campus members are encouraged to report concerning behaviors to the Department of Public Safety at (609) 258-1000 or (609) 258-3333 for emergencies.
