U of M to review communications protocols after an armed man was spotted on campus

The University of Manitoba is reviewing its communication protocols after some concerns were raised about the response to a gunman on campus Tuesday.

On Tuesday morning, Winnipeg police responded to a report of a man armed with a large knife. Although the situation was later resolved, no arrests were made.

Classes were canceled, but some students wished information about the situation had been reported sooner.

In an email sent to the campus community Wednesday and obtained by CTV News Winnipeg, Michael Benarroch, the university’s president and vice-chancellor, along with Diana Hibbert-Murphy, provost and academic vice-president, acknowledged that the day had caused distress for students and employees

“We are aware of the concern that information was not communicated quickly enough,” the couple wrote in a statement. “As with any event of this nature, we will review the effectiveness of our appropriate protocols to ensure that our processes meet our commitment to a safe and supportive environment.”

The statement said the information was sent out through multiple channels, including email, the university’s website, a campus loudspeaker and through the university’s social media channels.

They added that support is available for students and staff who are experiencing stress.

Winnipeg police are continuing to investigate the incident.

-With files from CTV’s Devon McKendrick