Western Illinois University Macomb will be closed Thursday following an “ongoing emergency” near campus, according to an alert on the school’s website.
The closure comes a day after two Macomb police officers were shot Wednesday while trying to serve an arrest warrant.
“Both Western Illinois University Macomb and Quad Cities campuses will be closed on Thursday, September 5 due to the ongoing police emergency near the Macomb campus,” said the school alarm. “The threat is contained and the perimeter will be cordoned off, but caution is advised and everyone should avoid the 300 block of North Normal Street and the surrounding area.”
The warning went on to say that all morning events, including athletics practices and team activities would be postponed.
According to the Macomb Police Department, two officers were shot Wednesday night while serving a warrant in the 300 block of North Normal Street.
“After knocking and announcing their presence several times, they forced their way into the residence but were immediately fired upon by someone inside the residence,” the Macomb police chief said in an update late Thursday.
The officer was taken to an area hospital in critical but stable condition, police said.
Authorities said the incident was isolated to the 300 block of North Normal, adding that a perimeter had been established.
According to the city of Macomb, some street closures were still in effect Thursday morning.
Officials were expected to provide another update at 10 a.m. Thursday, according to a police Facebook post.