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An official statement from Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) confirmed a tragic shooting that occurred early Sunday morning on campus following the Yard Fest, an event part of the school’s Viking Fest celebrations. This incident has left one individual dead and six others injured, emphasizing the heightened concern regarding gun violence on college campuses across the nation. ECSU, located approximately 50 miles south of Norfolk, is a historically Black university with a student body of around 2,300. The shooting disrupted what was meant to be a festive atmosphere, prompting administrators to implement new security measures to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff.
In total, six individuals sustained injuries, including four gunshot wounds—three of whom were ECSU students—and two others who were hurt amid the chaos during the Yard Fest. Fortunately, none of the injuries are considered life-threatening, and all those injured have been taken to local hospitals for treatment. Tragically, a 24-year-old man, not affiliated with ECSU, was killed during the shooting. The university is withholding his identity pending notification of his next of kin, which adds a layer of sensitivity to an already difficult situation.
Immediately following the shooting, the university put in place a campus lockdown and shelter-in-place order, measures that were lifted once law enforcement determined there was no continuing threat to the campus community. Nevertheless, ECSU has opted to maintain heightened security patrols on campus, restricted access to the central area, and continues to update protocols as necessary. This careful approach reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to student safety in light of the incident.
The university’s administration expressed their condolences in an official statement, saying, “ECSU extends its deepest sympathies to all those affected by this tragic event,” while reaffirming their dedication to the safety and well-being of the Viking community. To assure the campus that there is no immediate threat, ECSU Police have ramped up patrols across the campus. This response is essential to restoring a sense of security among students and staff alike, especially as they grapple with the emotional aftermath of such a crisis.
Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the ECSU Police, Elizabeth City Police Department, Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office, Camden County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, are engaged in the active investigation of the incident. ECSU has also made counseling services available at various campus locations, creating a supportive environment for those impacted. These services are indicative of the university’s proactive measures to address not only safety but also the mental health needs of its community.
As the investigation unfolds, ECSU is actively urging anyone with potential information regarding the shooting to come forward by contacting ECSU Police. This appeal highlights the need for community involvement in resolving the case, while also fostering a feeling of unity and support among the student body and staff during a challenging period. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues of gun violence in educational institutions, prompting discussions around safety protocols and the emotional impact of such tragedies on campus life.
