Michigan officials, university mark the one-year anniversary of the Michigan State shooting
LANSING, Mich. - Tuesday marks one year since a gunman opened fire on Michigan State University’s campus, killing three students and wounding five others.
The university has cancelled most classes on Tuesday. A number of activities and resources will be available to support students.
Michigan State University released the following statement marking the day:
The MSU community experienced violence at Berkey Hall and the MSU Union the evening of Feb. 13, 2023. Students Arielle Anderson, Brian Fraser and Alexandria Verner were killed, and five other students were critically injured.
The strength of the MSU community and its intrinsic motivation to support and uplift one another demonstrated Spartan resiliency. The act of violence does not define MSU. Rather, that time will be remembered for the response and commitment to caring for each other and MSU’s collective safety and well-being.
MSU is in discussions with the families of the students lost regarding how they want their loved ones memorialized on Spartans Together. More information will be added when ready.
The victims of the MSU shooting. From L-R: Arielle Anderson, Brian Fraser, Alexandria Verner
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II released the following statements on the anniversary.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer:
“A year ago today, every Spartan’s heart broke as our campus was shattered by gun violence.
“Today, let’s lean on each other—it's what we do best. Spartans are strong because we always have each other’s backs. Let's stand united as we remember those we lost, support those who bear scars both seen and unseen from that day, and continue to heal and process together.
“As Governor, I will do what it takes to make every campus in Michigan safe and ensure every student can learn and pursue their potential. We will honor those we lost with action. MSU is a special place that means so much to me and countless Michiganders. It’s home. It always will be.”
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II:
“One year after the tragic loss of life our community experienced, we continue to honor the lives of the three Spartans who were taken from us and wrap our arms around the countless other students who were affected by this tragic act.
“School should be a place of learning and opportunity, not a place of fear. No parent should be afraid to send their child to school. No student should be afraid to enter a classroom. We must support common sense gun laws to restore a common sense of peace.
“Our hearts are with MSU today and every day. Let us stand with the students, families, and friends who are all still grieving the immense loss to our community. Let us continue working together to ensure that no student, parent, or Michigander has to endure a tragedy like this.”