On April 12, 2025, at 1:57 a.m., the Cornell University Police Department was notified of an arson at Clara Dickson Hall, 21 Sisson Place, City of Ithaca. A smoke detector in room 4534 kitchenette area appeared to have been intentionally set on fire around 1:57 a.m. on April 12, 2025.

There is no suspect description available at this time. The investigation is ongoing and is being handled by the Cornell University Police Department and the Cornell University Fire Marshal’s Office.

Anyone with information related to this crime is asked to contact the Cornell University Public Safety Communications Center at (607) 255-1111.

The Cornell University Police Department and Cornell University Fire Marshal’s Office urge the community to protect themselves in the event of a fire by alerting those around you, evacuating the building, closing room doors as you leave, activating the fire alarm, and moving away from the building once you exit. Immediately report any suspected criminal activity by dialing 911 or utilizing the RAVE Guardian app.