Fire Investigation Updates
6/18/19:
Mazen Elzbik stood in front of Judge Parker in Allegany County Court and pled guilty to one count of Attempted Arson in the 3rd degree, a class D Felony. Elzbik stated in court that with intent to damage property, he intentionally set the fire on November 15th, 2017 at approximately 02:44. He was sentenced to 6 months in the Allegany County Jail and 5 years of probation.
5/7/18:
Arrest made in MacKenzie North residence hall fires. Mazen M. Elzbik, 20 of Smithtown was arrested on three counts: arson in the second degree a class B felony, criminal mischief in the second degree a class D felony, and reckless endangerment in the second degree a class A misdemeanor.
Thank you to all who cooperated during the extensive investigation including students, staff, and numerous fire and law enforcement agencies. A press release contains further details.
1/27/18:
Based on an investigative development, the college has enacted an interim suspension for a student directly related to this case. An interim suspension means that a student may not be present on campus, in our buildings, or attend classes pending the outcome of a process outlined in the student code of conduct.
12/13/17:
University Police continue to coordinate with law enforcement agencies and fire investigators to identify suspect(s) in the MacKenzie North trash can fires.
Officers have interviewed numerous witnesses, collected important evidence, and have taken proactive steps to prevent any more fires from occurring. UPD is optimistic that scientific analysis may yield a conclusion to the case during the following weeks.
During this winter break, officers and evidence analysts continue to place priority on this investigation and are working to ensure your continued safety.
Message from the President's Office:
The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is of utmost importance. On three occasions, trash or a small pile of clothes has been set on fire in the MacKenzie North residence hall. The fires were contained quickly and our emergency procedures worked to evacuate
This website is a resource for the latest information regarding investigations after recent incidents. As you know, social media may amplify voices with rumors and misinformation. We are here to answer and address all concerns.
I personally visited with evacuated students and I appreciate hearing all concerns. We held an open forum in SLC to make representatives from all areas of campus available for questions. This input greatly assists our response and investigation.
I cannot emphasize enough that we must work together to assist this investigation. Anyone with knowledge that may be helpful should come forward by sharing it directly with our University Police Department (UPD) at 607-587-3999 or through the Silent Witness system to aid the investigation.
Our campus community is one of support and we are here for you. The information below will be continually updated to address the most commonly asked questions and to connect you to available resources.
Sincerely,
Dr. Skip Sullivan
President
Is there a reward for providing information?
Alfred State's Development Fund Board is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of suspect(s) in the MacKenzie North incidents. Contact UPD at 607-587-3999.
Is there an information line if I have questions related to trash fires?
A hotline was activated 11/17/17 for more information. Discontinued 2/4/18.
Is the college responding to concerns by residents?
Comments, concerns, and suggestions are all taken seriously. President Sullivan met with evacuated residents at the scene and an open forum was held to answer questions. Officers continue to investigate the arson, crews addressed all maintenance requests in the building, and counselors are meeting with concerned residents.
If I hear a threat or rumor what should I do?
It is always valuable to ask: Where did that info start? Information that you believe has merit should be reported to the University Police Department (UPD) 607-587-3999, a person in authority at your residence hall, or other staff members. Spreading rumors with no clear source may unduly increase fear and create stress among classmates. The best action is to report it to the authorities so the claim will be investigated.
How can I report something suspicious?
Anyone with knowledge that may be helpful should come forward by sharing it directly with UPD officers at 607-587-3999 or through the Silent Witness system to aid the investigation.
What if the incidents affect my class attendance?
Students may feel anxiety or stress due to the trash fires. Residents in MacKenzie North may have lost sleep or may have missed a class. Faculty members are aware of these factors and have been asked to work with individuals for a solution to assist them in their academic progress.
Have any events or classes been affected?
No college events or classes have been cancelled due to the MacKenzie North incidents.
What assistance is available to concerned students?
In addition to the hotline, the entire campus staff and faculty are available to discuss and address your questions. If you would like to speak with a counselor or if you have other health needs, contact Health and Wellness Services at 607-587-4200.
Could I move to another residence hall?
Please make your request to your Residence Hall Director or the Office of Residential Services at the Townhouse Commons office 607-587-4371.
What is being done?
- Expanding police presence across campus
- Dedicating patrols in North to provide surveillance, including overnight
- Discussing accurate information through residence hall meetings
- Continuing use of video surveillance equipment and scrutiny of footage
- Analyzing forensic evidence recovered, including the use of DNA
- Using voice-stress analyzers and polygraph examinations as investigative tools
- Coordinating with the Federal Bureau of Investigation regarding profile work
What law enforcement agencies are assisting the investigation?
University Police and local fire officials are enlisting support from external agencies. These agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the New York State Police, New York State Office of Fire Prevention (OFP), and Allegany County Fire Investigators.
How are investigators working to determine a suspect?
Information from security cameras, evidence at the crime scene, and individual tips are providing leads to investigators.