"We seek to send out Western Alerts as soon as possible but it is important to note that all information is not instantaneously known to University Police," Cocke said in an email. "They must investigate and verify information provided before an alert can be issued. That can take time."
This story will be updated if more information becomes available. Updated 12:55 p.m. on Feb. 12 with information about University Police identifying the suspect.
Western has been criticized by students before for the timing and effectiveness of Western Alerts.
written by Western's Office of Communications
