Startup Spotlight: Rasta Sense
DBusiness reported that EMU professor Dr. Tareq Khan and Mohamed Hagras founded Rasta Sense, a startup developing a patent-pending AI gunshot detection device. Tested with Dearborn Police, it detected 100% of shots and has drawn interest from local schools.
EMU Professor Creates AI Gunshot Detection Device to Improve School Safety
The Sun Times News reported that EMU professor Dr. Tareq Khan created a patent-pending AI gunshot detection device, tested with Dearborn Police where it detected 100% of shots. About the size of a laptop charger, it plugs into any outlet and filters out other noises. The system has drawn school interest, and EMU has filed a provisional patent as Khan plans a startup.
New Device Detects School Shootings and Speeds Police Response
On August 12, 2025, WWJ’s Jeremy Jenkins interviewed Eastern Michigan University professor Dr. Tareq Khan about an innovative gunshot detection device.
Michigan SBDC Spotlights RASTA, the EMU Startup
Michigan SBDC has featured RASTA, an Eastern Michigan University–based startup developing AI-powered gunshot detection technology for schools and public spaces. The article highlights RASTA’s mission to enhance safety through instant detection and automated alerts to law enforcement, the company’s progress in securing pilot programs, and its vision for expanding this life-saving technology nationwide.
EMU professor develops classroom technology to detect gunshots
An Eastern Michigan University engineering professor, Dr. Tareq Khan, has developed AI-powered classroom technology that detects gunshots and automatically alerts police, aiming to cut response times in active shooter situations.
The Sound of Science
Eastern professor’s sound-based gunshot detection system could potentially save lives
RASTA Wins First Place at Manu‑Tech Pitch Event at Lean Rocket Lab
RASTA, an AIoT startup focused on rapid, sound-based gunshot detection for schools and public spaces, captured first place at the Manu‑Tech Pitch Event hosted by Lean Rocket Lab in Jackson, Michigan, last week.
RASTA Takes Second Place and $6,000 Grant at Michigan EdTech Innovation Pitch Contest
Focused on making classrooms safer with sub‑second, sound-driven gunshot detection, RASTA secured second place and a $6,000 prize at the 4th Annual Michigan EdTech Innovation Pitch Contest. The Michigan Virtual–hosted event, supported by the MSU Research Foundation and Michigan SBDC, highlighted five educator-created solutions to real school needs.
RASTA 