At 5:02 p.m., University President Rock JonesĀ sent an email to the Ohio Wesleyan community on this morning’s stabbing, including the name of the victim – senior Anthony Peddle of Chi Phi – and that he is in “good spirits.” The text is below:
Dear Members of the OWU Family,
I am writing to update you about senior Anthony Peddle, who was injured this morning at the Chi Phi fraternity house. I have visited with him and his family in Columbus, and I am pleased to report that he is in good spirits. He has undergone surgery for injuries to his hand, and he is recovering. I share this news with his approval.
I also write to thank everyone who has worked, and continues to work, to support the Chi Phi brothers and other affected students. This long thank-you list includes the Delaware City Police Department, which continues to investigate the incident. The Police Department was instrumental in securing the house, located more than a half mile from campus, and in helping the University to determine that a campuswide lockdown was not required.
Thanks also to the OWU staff from Student Affairs, Residence Life, Public Safety, and the Chaplainās Office who helped to feed and counsel students at the Chi Phi house this morning and who worked with faculty to rearrange final exams for those unable to take scheduled tests. It is during such times that OWU shows the true quality of its character and the depth and breadth of the care and support we have for one another.
The health and safety of our students is of vital importance. In addition to the immediate, on-site counseling provided at Chi Phi, we will haveĀ Counseling Services and Chaplainās Office representatives available fromĀ 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. SundayĀ for anyone who wishes assistance. They also will be available during regular hours throughout exam week. To support aĀ safe and secure environment, OWUĀ Public Safety officers continue to patrol campus 24/7 and to encourage everyone to share issues and concerns whenever they arise.
As you know, incidents such as this are rare, and they impact us deeply when they occur. They make us especially thankful for each other and the supportive Delaware community. We will continue to remain in close contact with Anthony and his family to help with whatever needs arise. Thank you again for all you do to make Ohio Wesleyan a family and a home.