In a campus-wide message shared on Friday, November 10, 2023, Peter J. Mohler, PhD, Acting President and Executive Vice President for Research, Innovation and Knowledge at Ohio State University, alerted the student body, faculty, and staff about two distressing incidents that occurred near the university. These incidents specifically targeted the Jewish community, prompting a swift and forceful response from the university administration.

Expressing zero tolerance for acts of hatred or violence, Dr. Mohler condemned antisemitism as "despicable" and affirmed its complete lack of place within the Ohio State community. He reassured the affected students, their families, and the entire campus that the university would take every possible action to combat hate crimes on or near the campus.

One of the incidents involved the assault of two students in the vicinity of 15th Avenue and High Street. One of the victims received medical treatment at the Wexner Medical Center and has since been discharged. The university is extending its support and assistance to the affected students during this difficult time. To raise awareness and promote safety, Ohio State University has also issued a Public Safety Notice.

In addition, an act of vandalism occurred at Hillel, the campus Jewish organization, on Thursday. Ohio State University is collaborating closely with the Columbus Division of Police, offering its full range of available resources to aid in their investigations into both incidents. The university possesses an extensive network of cameras and license plate readers in the affected areas, which can potentially assist in identifying the perpetrators. At this early stage of investigation, it remains unclear whether Ohio State students are responsible for either of these incidents. However, once the culprits are identified, the university vows to take strong and comprehensive measures within the boundaries of the law and university policies.

In a previous community message on Monday, Dr. Mohler acknowledged the prevailing pain within the Ohio State community. He emphasized the university's unwavering stance against any transgressions of the law or university policies, unequivocally addressing antisemitism, bigotry, Islamophobia, racism, sexism, and violence. The administration has consistently condemned hatred, intimidation, and harassment based on religious beliefs, nationality, or identity.

Ohio State University is resolute in its commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all its members. As the investigations progress, the university stands ready to take further action to hold the culprits accountable and restore a sense of security and unity on campus.