Faculty Members Identified as Victims in Fatal Shooting at University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Accident – death – Obituary News : LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Tragedy struck the University of Nevada, Las Vegas on Wednesday when four faculty members were shot on campus. Unfortunately, three of them succumbed to their injuries, leaving the university community in shock and mourning.

The Clark County Coroner’s Office has identified two of the victims as Professor Cha Jan “Jerry” Chang, 64, from Henderson, Nevada, and Assistant Professor Patricia Navarro Velez, 39, from Las Vegas. The third victim’s name has not been released yet, as the coroner’s office is working to notify the next of kin. The fourth victim, a 38-year-old male visiting professor, is currently fighting for his life at a local hospital.

Professor Chang, a respected member of the UNLV faculty since 2001, was teaching at the Lee Business School at the time of the incident. Throughout his tenure, he made significant contributions to the field of information systems auditing and was widely recognized for his expertise. His academic profile boasts publications in prestigious journals and speaking engagements at various conferences.

Assistant Professor Navarro Velez specialized in accounting information systems and was actively involved in researching cybersecurity disclosures, assurance, internal control weakness disclosure, and data analytics. She had become an integral part of the UNLV community, admired for her dedication to her students and her passion for her field.

The cause of death for Professor Chang was determined to be a gunshot wound to the head, while Assistant Professor Navarro Velez sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The exact cause of death for the third victim is still unknown.

The news of this tragic event has sent shockwaves through the university and the wider Las Vegas community. The university president, faculty, and students are rallying together to support each other during this difficult time. Counseling services have been made available to anyone in need, as the community mourns the loss of these esteemed faculty members.

The Clark County Coroner’s Office expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by this senseless act of violence. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to gather information and bring the perpetrator to justice.

As the UNLV community comes to terms with this devastating loss, they are determined to honor the memories of Professor Chang and Assistant Professor Navarro Velez through their continued commitment to education and their passion for their respective fields. Their impact on students and colleagues will be remembered and cherished for years to come.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of campus safety and the need for vigilance in ensuring the well-being of students, faculty, and staff. The university administration has pledged to review and enhance security measures to prevent future incidents and provide a safe learning environment for all..