I am writing to inform you of an unfortunate incident that occurred overnight near the IUP campus. According to Indiana Borough Police, eight cars were found on fire at a parking lot at 221 West Avenue around 4:30 a.m. Wednesday. No injuries were reported.

Indiana Fire Department officials have ruled the cause of the fires as arson.

Several of the cars are believed to be owned by members of Sigma Chi fraternity. Appropriate support is being offered to students involved.

The university community condemns this unfortunate act of property destruction, and we are working with authorities to support the ongoing investigation.

I would encourage any member of the university community who has information about this incident to contact the Office of University Safety at 724-357-2141.

Tony Atwater