LAS VEGAS: Japanese Studies Program Head Among Three Faculty Members Killed in UNLV Shooting

In a devastating incident that has sent shockwaves through the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) community, Naoko Takemaru, a 69-year-old Associate Professor and the head of the Japanese Studies Program, was identified as one of the victims in the tragic shooting that occurred on campus. Takemaru, a highly respected figure in her field, lost her life after a gunman opened fire in the university’s Lee Business School building on Wednesday.

The Clark County coroner’s office confirmed that Takemaru died from multiple gunshot wounds. Her dedication to the university’s Japanese Studies Program was noteworthy, as she oversaw the program and taught courses on various aspects of Japanese language, culture, and business. Takemaru was known for her excellence in teaching and had received an award for her exceptional contributions during her time at UNLV.

Takemaru’s tragic death adds to the already immense loss felt by the UNLV community. Two other faculty members, Professor Cha Jan “Jerry” Chang, 64, and Assistant Professor Patricia Navarro Velez, 39, had previously been identified as victims of the shooting.

Chang, a highly regarded educator in the field of management information systems, dedicated over two decades of his academic career to teaching business school students at UNLV. His contributions were acknowledged by UNLV President Keith Whitfield, who expressed his deep sadness at the loss of a “longtime educator.”

Navarro Velez, an assistant professor of accounting, was known for her passion for educating the next generation of accountants. Having served at UNLV for five years, her commitment to her students and the field of accounting was highly respected within the university community.

Another victim, a visiting professor who was injured during the shooting, remains in critical condition. Previously stable, their condition is now life-threatening, according to Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill, who provided an update during a news conference on Thursday.

The shooting incident unfolded around 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday when the gunman opened fire on the fourth floor of UNLV’s Lee Business School building. The assailant, identified as 67-year-old Anthony “Tony” Polito, proceeded to other floors before engaging in a shootout with law enforcement officers, resulting in his death.

Investigations have revealed that Polito, a former college professor, had applied for a job at UNLV but was rejected. Financial struggles seemed to have plagued him, as evidenced by an eviction notice found on his door. Furthermore, police discovered that Polito had compiled a list of targets at the university and was in possession of over 150 rounds of ammunition.

The UNLV community is mourning the loss of three beloved faculty members, each leaving behind a profound impact on the university and their respective fields of study. As investigations continue, the focus now turns to healing and supporting the affected students, faculty, and staff during this tragic time.

For more information about the incident, please visit the official UNLV website or refer to the provided links.