A St. Louis school shooting left a student and teacher dead and injured seven other people on Monday, Oct. 24. The 19-year-old shooter was killed by police when they responded to the event at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School in St. Louis. The event led a part of the SEMO community to reflect on the situation.

SEMO University president Carlos Vargas stated his thoughts on the incident in an email to the entire campus.

“Many of our students, faculty and staff are alumni or know people impacted by this heartbreaking event. I ask that you join me in keeping Central VPA, its students, faculty, staff and their families in our thoughts and prayers,” Vargas stated.

Vargas stated the university will provide resources for students and faculty members in need of support.

“In the wake of events like this, it can feel overwhelming,” Vargas stated. “I encourage us all to check in on peers and colleagues and reach out for support.”

Vargas linked resources SEMO’s community can access at the end of the email. Students looking for grief support services can contact the Center for Behavioral Health and Accessibility at cbha@semo.edu or (573) 986-6191. Employees should contact the Employee Assistance Program through H&H Health Associate at 1 (800) 832-8302.