In addition to an email communication to University of Dayton students, the university issued this statement to the media Sunday afternoon:

University of Dayton Statement, St. Patrick’s Day Disturbance

While the vast majority of University of Dayton students were not involved in a St. Patrick’s Day disturbance early this morning, the behavior of those who were is unacceptable and disappointing.

No one was injured during the incident that occurred at approximately 4:40 a.m. this morning after public safety officers responded to a false fire alarm at a residence in the 400 block of Kiefaber Street.

One person, who is not a University of Dayton student, was arrested, and 11 cars, including a police cruiser, were damaged. A number of area police jurisdictions responded, and the disturbance was quickly contained. We thank area police for their responsiveness to this situation.

University of Dayton President Daniel J. Curran, who was on the scene encouraging students to go back to their houses, was struck by a shield from a police officer. University of Dayton public safety officers quickly escorted him away from the scene.

In an effort to ensure that any St. Patrick’s Day celebrations on campus are safe, we are not permitting large non-University-sponsored gatherings today. Parking lots will be access-controlled to ensure adequate parking for students, faculty, staff and visitors for Masses, workshops, theater productions and other University events today. Students failing to comply with the University’s Community Standards of Behavior will be held accountable for their behavior. A number of non-alcohol events, such as cookouts, movies, bowling and pizza gatherings, will be held across campus, as scheduled.

“We would describe what happened as a disturbance. It was quickly contained because of the response by University police and other jurisdictions,” said Andy Booher, a lieutenant with the Dayton Police Department.