March 2 Media Update at 5:15 p.m. from Town of Amherst, UMass

AMHERST, Mass. – Town of Amherst and University of Massachusetts officials said a successful combination of extensive planning, coordinated public safety efforts and cooperative students helped ensure a safe and peaceful day in the town and on campus.

The primary goal of providing a safe environment free from any large-scale disturbances was accomplished. The Town of Amherst will maintain vigilance tonight to ensure the safety of the community.

“Yet again, the combined efforts of the town, university and mutual aid partners have ensured the safety of our community. The careful planning has deterred any significant issues throughout the course of the day,” said Town Manager Paul Bockelman. “We want to thank the university, various agencies and all of our partners from the surrounding communities for their help in making a safe and successful operation possible.”

“A big part of today’s success is the cooperation of our students at the Mullins Center and off campus,” said Enku Gelaye, UMass Amherst vice chancellor for student affairs and campus life. “I want to add my thanks to our Team Positive Presence and Walk This Way volunteers, for helping make this a peaceful and safe event.”

More than 2,400 UMass students attended a concert at the Mullins Center, where UMass EMS treated four students, two for minor injuries and two for alcohol-related issues. No students were transported by ambulance from Mullins and no arrests were made at the concert. 

The Amherst Police Department, which was assisted by police from a number of western Massachusetts communities and the State Police, reported two arrests, one for disorderly conduct and the other for a liquor violation. Officers also responded to three disturbances and two large gatherings. 

Amherst Fire Department reported six ambulance calls, one on campus and five off campus. Four patients were transported to Cooley Dickinson Hospital for alcohol-related issues.

Amherst Fire Department also reported that a malicious false fire alarm was pulled at the Old Towne Tavern and the facility was evacuated. No fire was detected and no injuries were reported.