*Update* On October 5th, a photo from a local Facebook user began circulating of a clown sighting at Evans Field, just a block north of North Ave on Thatcher Ave. This sighting hits incredibly close to campus, and it is important to be careful now more than ever.
As covered by the media seemingly every night for the past few weeks, clown sightings have becoming a bigger trend. What initially appeared as a marketing campaign for the upcoming remake of Stephen King’s IT, has since spiraled out of control.
The first reported sighting of these creepy clowns was a few weeks back in South Carolina. Since then, the reports of clown sightings has spiked, with new reports coming in every morning.
While there have been no reports of these clowns being an actual threat, it is important to take precautions, especially with Halloween coming up. The initial report stated that locals were taking their guns and firing into the forest.
Recently, it was reported that students at OPRF High School have received threats on social media related to clowns.
Now, while it should be stressed there have not been any physical sightings of clowns in the Oak Park River Forest area, students should be prepared for the possibility of sightings happening soon.
If you encounter one of these clowns, you must remember that assaulting them is considered a crime. However, if they assault you first you are allowed to react in self-defense. Do not attempt to approach the clowns as you may provoke them. Simply walk away, and if you fear for your safety, do not hesitate to call 911.
Be safe, especially when preparing for Halloween.
