The Texas Tech campus in Lubbock will remain closed through Friday.

Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec and others addressed the campus and local community in a press conference today (March 13), expressing gratitude that no injuries occurred during an incident on the Texas Tech campus Wednesday night.

The situation began around 6:40 p.m. Wednesday with reports of power outages and smoke emanating from a manhole at the Engineering Key. First responders, including the Texas Tech Police Department, Texas Tech Fire Marshal, Lubbock Fire Rescue, and other law enforcement agencies, arrived on scene. Lubbock Power & Light also provided an immediate response to evaluate and assess the situation, and all available crews will remain on campus until the situation is resolved.

Texas Tech’s emergency operations team worked overnight to ensure campus safety, leading to the cancellation of classes on Thursday and Friday. The university prioritized evacuating those in the Engineering Key as well as students with medical needs and those unable to leave due to spring break. Hotel rooms have been secured for students.

The Texas Tech Fire Marshal and State Fire Marshal's Office are leading the investigation, with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but there no immediate evidence of any criminal activity.

LFR deputy chief Nick Wilson said there is no danger to the public, although portions of campus remain inaccessible. As of Thursday afternoon, power has been restored to part of the campus, but several meters remain off until it is safe to turn them back on.

Schovanec commended the professionalism of faculty, staff and local emergency responders, emphasizing the importance of safety and preparedness.

Texas Tech and its partners will continue to monitor and address any remaining safety concerns. The campus community is urged to continue to follow safety guidelines and stay updated through Texas Tech’s emergency alert system.