LAS VEGAS, NV – After the tragic mass shooting at UNLV in December, the home of Associate Professor Naoko Takemaru was reportedly burglarized, according to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police. Takemaru was one of three faculty members who lost their lives in the shooting at Beam Hall.
A neighbor called the police on December 26 after witnessing someone leaving Takemaru’s residence. The neighbor reported seeing a woman covering her face as she entered the home and then leaving an hour later with several items. Though the neighbor attempted to take pictures, the woman fled the scene and left in a car with two men.
Upon investigation, police discovered that several cabinets in the home had been left open, but the extent of the items stolen remains unknown. Takemaru, a beloved professor at UNLV for 20 years, was known for her expertise in Japanese studies and had authored a book on gender bias in Japanese society.
Following the burglary, police secured the home to prevent further incidents and attempted to contact Takemaru’s next of kin. Neighbors had previously gathered at her residence for a candlelight vigil, leaving behind signs and flowers in her memory.
The burglary of the late professor’s home adds another layer of tragedy to the already devastating shooting at UNLV, leaving the community shaken and mourning the loss of a respected educator. Takemaru’s impact on the university and her students continues to be felt, as the investigation into the burglary remains ongoing.