Racist graffiti that included a swastika and a written threat promising a mass shooting in the next three days was found in a men’s restroom inside MacQuarrie Hall at San José State University, alarming students and staff and instantly dominating campus chatter. The messages reportedly singled out Jewish, Chinese, and Muslim members of the campus community, and images of the writing spread quickly through student group chats and social platforms, triggering a full-on response from university leaders.
In a message to the university community, Provost Vincent del Casino said the person responsible will be held "accountable for their actions” and detailed steps the university is taking to tighten security, including expanded cameras in public and exterior areas of residence halls, improved lighting, and increased foot patrols, according to the East Bay Times. The outlet reports the graffiti was discovered Tuesday in MacQuarrie Hall and that it is the second racist vandalism incident on campus in two weeks. University leaders said they are treating the threat as serious while investigators work to assess its credibility.
Campus safety and support
San José State University Police are investigating and ask anyone with information to contact UPD at 408-924-2222; the university’s emergency information page also directs people to the Spartan Safe mobile app for reporting and alerts, according to San José State University. Students who need emotional support can reach Counseling and Psychological Services at 408-924-5678, as outlined by the school’s wellness services at San José State University. The provost’s message also reminded employees that the employee assistance program is available for staff seeking support.
How to report
Students were informed that they can submit tips through the Spartan Safe app, the Title IX-EO reporting form, and the student conduct incident reporting form, options outlined in the university message and reported by the East Bay Times. Officials also requested that anyone with relevant information contact SJSU police at the number above so that investigators can follow up directly. Facilities staff were dispatched to remove the graffiti and to inspect the area for any additional security gaps.
Campus reaction and context
Students on the SJSU subreddit and other platforms shared photos and first-hand accounts of the incident, with some noting they had already contacted campus police; posts reflect growing concern about repeated bias incidents on campus. For many, the discovery resurfaced memories of earlier episodes of racist vandalism at SJSU and across the region and fueled debate over whether the university needs more proactive measures to prevent similar threats. Some instructors signaled they would offer remote options while the case is being resolved.
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