PRESS RELEASE

Salvation Army Brings Comfort Following Horrific
Shooting at Northern Illinois University

February 15, 2008 –The Salvation Army immediately responded yesterday after a gunman entered a lecture hall on the Northern Illinois University campus in DeKalb, Ill., and opened fire killing six people and injuring at least 15 others before turning the gun on himself. Salvation Army emergency disaster services personnel worked with university police to provide support and emotional and spiritual care to law enforcement officials and students.

Meals, beverages and refreshments have been served from a Salvation Army canteen that was deployed to the scene. In addition, Salvation Army officers (pastors) trained in critical incident stress management were on the scene to provide comfort to law enforcement officials and students devastated by the tragedy.

Captains Alex and Aimee Norton, who oversee The Salvation Army’s work in DeKalb, Ill., have a vital ministry on the NIU campus and were a comfort to many students dealing with the horrors that occurred on their campus. A prayer service was held last night at The Salvation Army’s DeKalb Corps and Community Center (center for worship and service) and prayer rooms were made available to students throughout the night.

The Salvation Army serves in more than 100 countries and provides both immediate emergency assistance and long-term recovery help in the event of any disaster. Funds for The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services come from corporate and private donations given specifically for disaster relief. To volunteer with The Salvation Army or to make a credit card donation, call 651-746-3400 or 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Checks made out to The Salvation Army may be sent to 2445 Prior Ave., Roseville, MN 55113. Click below to make an online donation.