Virginia State University Shooting: Campus lockdown lifted after multiple shots fired; several injured

A gun attack involving several suspects and victims led to a lockdown at Virginia State University early Saturday, which was later lifted around 8 am (local time), reported 13newsnow.

The university said the injuries sustained did not appear to be life-threatening, according to AP.

When did it take place?

University officials mentioned police were called to the area around Boisseau Street at about 1:30 am (local time) following reports of gunfire, where officers found five people injured. The university noted all five victims were taken to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

"Officers responded to the 3300 block of Boisseau Street at approximately 1:28 a.m. and discovered five individuals suffering from gunshot wounds outside VSU residence halls," a university official told Fox News Digital.

"All five were transported to area hospitals. One individual is currently in critical condition. The remaining four sustained non-life-threatening injuries," the official added.

The incident took place near the university’s Quad Annexes, according to a statement from the institution, reported AP. Campus authorities and Chesterfield County police were investigating the shooting.

The university had earlier said on X that “multiple suspects” were involved in the shooting. Authorities have not announced any arrests so far.

What Police said

"A shooting occurred in the area of the Quad Annexes involving multiple victims, who were transported to area hospitals," VSU Police said in a post on X.

"Police are on scene and request that you avoid the area," the statement further stated.

Officers continued to remain at the scene as the investigation was underway.

Two injured in Old Dominion University shooting in March

An active shooter incident at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, left two people injured on Thursday (March 12) before authorities neutralised the gunman. The university then cancelled classes and suspended campus operations for the rest of the day.

The shooting occurred at Constant Hall, university officials said, triggering a response from campus police and local law enforcement. The university sent its first emergency alert to students and faculty at around 10:50 a.m. local time, warning of an active threat on campus.

“O.D.U. Urgent Alert: Active threat reported at Constant Hall. Follow Run-Hide-Fight protocols. Emergency personnel responding. Avoid area,” the alert sent to the campus community said.

Emergency responders quickly reached the site after authorities received reports of gunfire.

University spokesperson Jonah Grinkewitz said the suspect began firing shortly before 10:49 a.m., leaving two people injured.

Campus police, the Norfolk Police Department and other emergency responders rushed to the university following the shooting.

“A gunman in Constant Hall opened fire and injured two people,” Grinkewitz said, adding that the shooter is now dead.

The two injured victims were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their conditions were not immediately available.