May 3, 2016
Mr. James Patterson
California
Dear Mr. Patterson:
Thank you for writing to express your concern over the recent stabbing attack at the University of California, Merced. I appreciate hearing from you on this topic, and I welcome the opportunity to respond.
As has been reported, on November 4, 2015, Faisal Mohammad, an 18-year-old student at the University of California, Merced, entered campus and proceeded to stab two other students, a teacher, and local construction worker with a hunting knife. As events unfolded, Mr. Mohammad was shot and killed by an officer responding to the attack. All four wounded victims are expected to fully recover.
While this incident occurred without advance warning, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has now reported that Mr. Mohammad had viewed terrorist propaganda and may have been self-radicalized.
First, let me express my deepest sympathies for the individuals injured during this dangerous incident. As a mother and grandmother, I share your concern for the safety of our young people and students. I also believe that children deserve a safe and healthy environment in which to learn and live and that more must be done to ensure that those who seek to cause harm should not have access to dangerous weapons.
Additionally, please be assured that I strongly condemn anti-Semitism in all its forms. Anti-Semitic language and actions have no place in our world and should not be tolerated by any community. I firmly believe that people should be able to practice their faith freely and without threat of discrimination or intimidation.
Again, thank you for writing. Please know that I have taken careful note of your concerns regarding campus security and terrorism, and hope you will continue to write on matters of importance to you. If you have any additional thoughts or comments, please feel welcome to contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841
Sincerely,
Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator
