Molly Kiefer / The Mossy Log
Campus safety is investigating suspected arson incidents that occurred in a bathroom in Albany according to an Oct. 8 email sent to the Lewis & Clark community.
The notice was sent under the Clery Act, a federal law that requires colleges to inform the community of any ongoing threats and prevent similar occurrences.
Campus Safety became aware of “suspicious activity” in an Albany bathroom on Oct. 6, according to the email. Campus Safety found evidence suggesting someone had intentionally set objects on fire multiple times. The email does not specify what objects. Albany was the only building on campus impacted by the occurrences. There were no reported injuries, and neither fire alarms nor fire suppression systems were activated.
Portland Fire & Rescue is helping investigate the incidents, and according to an email statement from Campus Safety to The Mossy Log, Campus Safety is also working with investigators at the Portland Police Bureau. Campus Safety said it has no suspect description yet. In response to these incidents, Campus Safety announced that security staff and other college employees will regularly patrol the campus at night. Faculty and staff who work in Albany will also be informed about further safety measures. The Mossy Log reached out to Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students Ben Meoz regarding the possibility of increased video surveillance following the incidents.
“Cameras are one of the strategies we use to enhance campus safety and have been discussed. Because this is an active investigation we are not able to share any specific details at this time,” Meoz said.
In April, the college revised its camera policy to allow cameras in residence hall common areas, a change Meoz said was prompted by previous arson attempts on campus this year.
In Spring 2026, in Copeland Residence Hall, there were several instances of suspected arson where fire alarms were triggered. However, Campus Safety said there does not appear to be a connection between the incidents this semester in Albany and those last semester in Copeland.
In the timely warning notice, Campus Safety provided the community with reminders about fire safety. It urges everyone to evacuate whenever a fire alarm goes off, and in case of emergency, call 911. It asks that the community members not investigate the incidents themselves or confront someone they suspect to have been involved. Finally, Campus Safety requested that anyone with information regarding these incidents reach out to them at 503-768-7855.
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