Stabbing Suspect At UIC Attempted To Use 'Incendiary Device' Beforehand: Police

CHICAGO, IL — The University of Illinois Chicago student suspected of attempting to stab another student on campus attempted to use an "incendiary device" before the incident, according to UIC Chief of Police Kevin Booker.

The student was arrested Wednesday after an attempted stabbing inside Student Center East, a campus building at 750 S. Halsted St. Two UIC students were involved and one student was taken into custody, authorities said.

Booker said the student attempted to use an incendiary device in a second-floor hallway and then attempted to stab another student with a knife.

The other student was not injured.

"Thanks to the quick actions of bystanders and our campus safety personnel and systems, the alleged suspect, a UIC student, was immediately detained and is now in custody. There is no ongoing threat to the campus community," Booker said.

At about 12:40 p.m., the university issued a public alert saying there was police activity at Student Center East and that the building had been evacuated. The university told the public to avoid the area until further notice. Student Center East remained closed after the arrest while police continued investigating, but reopened Thursday morning.

The university said UIC Police is working with local and federal law enforcement agencies. According to the update, investigators were not releasing more information Wednesday because of the ongoing investigation.

The university said support was available for students through the Counseling Center, the Office of the Dean of Students and the Wellness Center. Faculty and staff could use Employee Assistance Programs.

"Events like this can be unsettling, even for those who were not present," Booker said.