LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – In the wake of the tragic mass shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas on December 6, burglars recently targeted the home of one of the victims, Naoko Takemaru. The 69-year-old associate professor was one of three professors killed in the shooting. The burglary took place on December 26, when three individuals broke into Takemaru’s Las Vegas residence, taking advantage of her absence. It was reported that a neighbor attempted to intervene but was unable to stop the burglars, who subsequently fled the scene.
Authorities arrived to find Takemaru’s home ransacked, and while the extent of the stolen items was not immediately clear, it added to the heartbreak surrounding the recent tragedy. This development comes in the aftermath of the mass shooting where Takemaru and two other professors were senselessly murdered. The assailant, Tony Polito, targeted the professors with a legally purchased handgun, fueled by his apparent frustration at not being hired by the university.
The UNLV community mourned the loss of the three professors, and in honor of their memory, the UNLV Foundation established scholarships to commemorate their contributions to the university. The unfortunate burglary serves as a grim reminder of the emotional and logistical challenges faced by the loved ones left behind in the wake of such a devastating loss.
In the midst of the ongoing investigation and efforts to address the aftermath of this tragic event, the community continues to rally around the victims and their families. The impact of this senseless act of violence highlights the need for continued support and vigilance in the face of such devastating losses. The UNLV Foundation’s actions to honor the victims reflect the resilience and solidarity of the university community as they navigate through this challenging time with grace and determination.
The burglary has further complicated the grieving process for Takemaru’s loved ones, adding another layer of distress to the already devastating loss. The community looks toward healing and remembrance, as they honor the contributions and legacies of the three professors who tragically lost their lives in the shooting at UNLV. The memory of Naoko Takemaru and her colleagues will endure through the scholarships established in their honor, ensuring that their impact continues to be felt in the community they so profoundly influenced.