Stab mark on tire
Spencer Mosher
Two incidents of intentional tire damage occurred between Feb. 2 and Feb. 3, 2026, in residential parking areas of Saint Xavier University (SXU)’s campus.
According to Chief of Police and Director of Campus Safety Daniel Murphy, two vehicles had all four of their tires slashed over a two-day period. The incidents took place in Parking Lots 6 and 7, which are primarily designated for residential students.
At this time, officials say there is no evidence confirming the incidents are related, and no suspects have been identified.
One of the affected students, Spencer Mosher, said his vehicle was parked in Lot 7 in the middle row, “farthest to the left, if you’re facing L7.” He believes the damage may have occurred sometime late Friday night into early Saturday morning, though he cannot say for certain.
Lot seven
The Xavierite
Mosher said he returned to campus around midnight after bowling Friday evening but did not check on his car again until Monday evening. When he first noticed the issue, he assumed the cold weather had caused his tires to go flat.
“I walk out, and I see my tires are flat. […] All I could think is, ‘Oh man, the weather got them,’” Mosher said.
After contacting Campus Safety later that evening, officers suggested the tires may have been intentionally damaged. AAA was called to assist. Once the tires were filled, the cause became clear.
“They were like, ‘Yeah, there’s a slash mark in this tire. Someone definitely slashed them,’” Mosher said. He described the damage as a small incision, appearing to have been made by a pocketknife. All four tires were cut in a similar location.
Mosher said he does not believe he was personally targeted.
“I really don’t think I’d piss anyone off on this campus,” he said, adding that he believes it was “probably just some kids doing some stupid stuff.”
He emphasized that he has not had any known conflicts on campus and said he would have preferred direct communication if there had been an issue. “If there was an issue, I hope they’d bring it up to me,” he said.
He also addressed whoever may have been responsible directly. “But if I did [make anybody mad], I’m sorry. And if you’re reading this right now and you’re hearing this quote, come find me, let’s talk about it.”
Murphy confirmed that, based on the investigation so far, the incidents appear to be random acts of property damage. No viable video evidence was recovered from surveillance cameras near Lots 6 and 7.
Mosher’s vehicle was inoperable for about two days while it was towed and repaired. Although Campus Safety assisted by contacting AAA, the university did not provide financial assistance. Mosher stated his insurance covered the cost of repairs.
“The biggest thing was them calling AAA just for me to know that my tires were slashed,” he said, adding that he appreciated Public Safety’s effort. However, he noted that it took approximately one full day for Public Safety to return the report to him.
Despite the incident, Mosher said he continues to park in the same lot.
“I’m not changing where I’m parking,” he said. “I just think if something were to happen again, other courses of legal action might happen.”
In response to the vandalism, SXU Public Safety has increased patrols and will continue monitoring parking areas. The department encourages students to report suspicious activity immediately.
“It is important that the SXU community lock their cars, remove valuables from view, and park in well-lit areas when possible,” Murphy said. He also advised anyone who discovers damage to their vehicle to take photos, contact their insurance company, and notify Public Safety so an officer can respond and complete a report.
Murphy added that Public Safety remains committed to maintaining a safe campus environment and will provide updates as more information becomes available.