Suspicious item provokes evacuation of residences

A clock that resembled a grenade led to the evacuation of two residence buildings on U of T’s downtown Toronto campus yesterday.

Campus police are reminding all members of the community not to bring objects that might raise suspicion onto campus.  

 “This was a novelty item but it was convincing enough that Toronto Police Services and Toronto Fire Services brought in explosive experts to handle it,” said Campus Police spokesman Mike Munroe. 

“We encourage everyone to use common sense and not bring objects that may be perceived as suspicious or threatening to campus,” Munroe said. 

The clock was covered in dust and appeared to have been in place for some time, he added. 

Any students who have items in their residence rooms they feel might cause concern – including replicas or toys – are urged to contact campus police.

“We would be more than willing to advise them,” Monroe said.

The incident highlighted the importance of registering for text alerts. Text alerts are the fastest way the university has to reach students, staff and faculty in an emergency or an urgent situation but individuals must add a phone number to receive them.

Learn more about UTAlerts and how to add additional contact information, including how to add a number for text alerts.

Visit safety.utoronto.ca for more information on safety at U of T.