The NOPD has arrested Joseph Russo (white male, DOB: 08-15-1984) in connection with a terrorizing incident that occurred today on the University of New Orleans campus.

At about 9:00 a.m., a male subject reportedly phoned the university. During the call, the subject allegedly threatened to burn down buildings on campus. Administration immediately contacted UNO Police regarding the incident. 

The NOPD, FBI, Louisiana State Police, UNO Police and Levee District Police worked together to locate the perpetrator in the 2300 block of Saint Philip Street. The subject, subsequently identified as Russo, was arrested without incident. 

Russo was booked on one count each of terrorizing and of unlawful disruption of the operation of a school.

The UNO campus was evacuated out of an abundance of caution, and two attached schools - Hynes UNO Charter and Ben Franklin High School - were placed on lockdown. The evacuation has since been canceled and the lockdowns have since been lifted. No injuries were reported.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to contact NOPD Third District detectives at 504-658-6030.

Have a question or correction? Please email NOPD’s Public Affairs Division at nopdpio@nola.gov.