An anthropology professor who was stabbed four times with a 6-inch kitchen blade in Science 1 around 1:45 p.m. died at Wilson Memorial Hospital this afternoon, according to a report from The Press & Sun-Bulletin.
The report identifies anthropology professor Richard T. Antoun as the victim, based on statements from faculty in the department. It also lists witnesses stating that the attacker is a graduate student, in addition to the fact that Antoun suffered a collapsed lung, as well as possible other injuries.
According to a text alert and B-Line message sent out at 2:17 p.m. to students, faculty and staff, campus police responded to the stabbing and have an unidentified suspect in custody.
While University spokesman Ryan Yarosh said the victim was a retired faculty member, he could not confirm a name or position.
“[The faculty member was] treated on site and transported to the hospital,” Yarosh said. “The suspect is in custody, and both UPD and state police are processing evidence. Classes are canceled until further notice.”
As of 3:23 p.m. all events and classes in Science 1 were cancelled, according to a text message sent from BU’s alert system.
BU officials warned those on campus to stay clear of the building, although the University was not placed on lockdown.
Within Science 1, the location of the incident is is still unconfirmed, Yarosh said.
Antoun is a published author who has written several books, the Press & Sun- Bulliten reported. In 2008, he published the book “Understanding Fundamentalism: Christian, Islamic, and Jewish Movements.