With an alert coming out early Monday morning about a murder on campus, students at Binghamton University were immediately seeking more information.
But some say they felt left in the dark, and scared, as police canvassed the area.
Vince Briga caught up with a local attorney to find out why the university was careful about releasing any information too soon.
VESTAL, N.Y. -- It's one of the most alarming texts you can receive.
At 11:14 p.m. on Sunday, students at Binghamton University were issued an alert, stating that a fellow student had been stabbed.
Seven hours later, just after 6:00 a.m., they learned the victim, later identified as 19-year-old Joao Souza had died.
"The whole prospect that such a horrendous event such as a homicide or a murder such as this can occur is just life changing," said Debra Gelson, Tully Rinckey Trial Attorney.
It wouldn't be until 9:41 a.m. when students would learn who the victim was.
At this point, dozens of members of law enforcement had been searching every crevice of campus for hours.
This left many with several unanswered questions and fears about their safety.
At a briefing, the university said student safety wasn't at risk, but would remain a priority.
"If there is specific information we believe students need for their safety, we will communicate that information via the alert system," said Brian Rose, Binghamton University Student Affairs Vice President.
Just before 2:30 p.m., students received yet another alert, this time providing them with answers to their questions, as a suspect was still at large.
The university reminded them to keep their student ID on them at all times, and to keep their rooms locked, without sharing key information.
Finally, just before 10:00 p.m., students learned the name of the suspect in custody, fellow student Michael Roque.
Local attorneys say while students and parents want all the information possible, releasing it too soon could be detrimental.
"It's the district attorney's duty and obligation to maintain the integrity to make sure they get the best evidence they possibly can to build the strongest case that they possible can against the individual who's accused," said Gelson.
Attorneys say mental health plays a major role in these cases and students should always speak up if they, or other students show any warning signs.
Roque is charged with second-degree murder.
There's currently no set court date.
For a list of alerts, visit www.binghamton.edu/alert.