LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Police have reported a burglary at the home of UNLV associate professor Naoko Takemaru, who was tragically killed in a mass shooting on campus in December. According to a police report, the burglary occurred last week when a neighbor saw someone leaving the late professor’s residence. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police were notified on Dec. 26, and the neighbor reported spotting a woman entering the home and later leaving with several items.
The neighbor attempted to take photos of the woman but was unsuccessful in capturing clear images. The woman and two men then left the scene in a car, and blurry photos allowed police to obtain a possible license plate number. On entering the house, officers discovered several open cabinets, although they were unable to ascertain exactly what items were taken.
Takemaru, 69, was a well-respected Japanese studies professor at UNLV and had been a member of the faculty for 20 years. Following her passing in the December shooting at Beam Hall, members of the community held a candlelight vigil at her home, where signs and flowers were left in her honor. It was noted in the police report that the house needed to be secured to prevent further vandalism, as officers were unable to reach Takemaru’s next of kin, her brother.
This unfortunate burglary adds to the tragedy of the loss of a beloved faculty member and highlights the need for increased security measures to protect the homes of victims of violent crimes. The police are continuing their investigation into the burglary, and the community remains in mourning for the loss of Takemaru and the other victims of the mass shooting at UNLV.