I am saddened to inform the Robert Morris University community that two Robert Morris students have been killed and another student critically injured in a shooting that took place Tuesday, Jan. 22, at the Settler's Place Apartments in North Fayette.

RMU undergraduate students Jonathan Gilbert, 22, and Michael Tatalovich, 20, were killed. Both of these young men were sophomores and roommates residing in Washington Hall at the Robert Morris Moon Township campus. Jonathan was an elementary education major from Monaca, and Michael was an economics major from Aliquippa.

RMU junior and elementary education major Michelle Machusko, 20, who lives at the Settler's Place apartment where the shooting took place, is in critical condition at Mercy Hospital. She is expected to live.

Our prayers and sympathies go out to the families and friends of these three young people, and we hope for a full recovery for Michelle.

Police have a suspect in custody. The suspect is not, nor ever was, a Robert Morris student.

I know that I, personally, am feeling shocked and troubled by this tragic loss to the Robert Morris family. I'm sure you are feeling the same.

Please let me remind you of resources that are available to all of us during this tragic time:

--Students, faculty and staff can receive grief counseling and other support from the Office of Student Life by calling 412-262-8346 or through a 24-hour email account at studentlife@rmu.edu. Please contact the Office of Student Life if you would like to speak to a member of the Campus Ministry Association.

--Faculty and staff could also contact the Employee Assistance Program by calling 1-800-311-4327 or accessing guidanceresources.com and providing the RMU Code MGR311. The Campus Ministry Association is also available to faculty and staff.

--The university will hold a memorial service for Jonathan and Michael on Wednesday, Jan. 30, at 4 p.m. in the Sewall Center (International Suite).

I encourage you to seek support from your community and loved ones, and would also encourage you to reach out to others who may need your support. I know the Robert Morris community will come together to offer comfort and solace during this difficult time.

Sincerely,
Gregory Dell'Omo