Tragedy in Monterey Park

Last night in the Los Angeles-area city of Monterey Park, a gunman opened fire inside a dance venue near a Lunar New Year celebration, killing 10 people and wounding 10 more. A majority of residents in Monterey Park are of Asian ancestry and a number of our students come from there and nearby communities. It is the 33^rd mass shooting in the United States so far in 2023 and the second in less than a week in California.

Our hearts go out to all the victims and their loved ones. Many members of our UCI community are reeling from this heinous attack, especially given that it occurred on the eve of the most important holiday of the year in many Asian cultures. Celebrating the Lunar New Year is integral to our campus and today carries more meaning than ever before.

As we go about our activities today and in the days to come, know that UCI is committed to keeping our campus safe and has emergency procedures in place for your protection. If you feel you would like help in coping with this event, please reach out to these resources:

UCI Counseling Center for undergraduates and graduate students
Employee Assistance Program for faculty and staff

Fiat Lux.

Chancellor Howard Gillman