What was supposed to be a weekend of excitement ahead of the new school year quickly turned into a frightening morning for the Virginia State University community. The historically Black university is now facing a serious investigation after gunfire erupted near student housing, leaving multiple people injured and prompting officials to lock down the campus.
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At Least Five People Were Shot Near VSU’s Dorms
According to officials, officers responded to the area near the university’s residence halls at approximately 1:29 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, and found five people suffering from gunshot wounds outside the dorms. All five victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
One victim was initially reported to have life-threatening injuries and was later listed in critical condition. The other four sustained injuries that were not considered life-threatening, and the university later confirmed that the student among the victims had been released from the hospital.
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Police Are Searching For Multiple Suspects
Chesterfield County Police are leading the investigation, with Virginia State University Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office assisting. Authorities said they are searching for multiple suspects, and no arrests had been reported as of Saturday afternoon. Police also said the shooting was not a drive-by incident.
The shooting prompted a temporary campus lockdown that was later lifted Saturday morning. While the lockdown has ended, officials said a significant law enforcement presence remains on campus as investigators work to determine exactly what happened.
The Shooting Came Just Before Classes Were Set To Begin
The incident happened just days before the start of VSU’s fall semester, with classes scheduled to begin Monday, Aug. 17. Students had recently returned to campus residence halls and participated in the university’s “New Trojans Experience” for incoming students.
Virginia State University is a public HBCU in Ettrick, Virginia, about 20 miles south of Richmond, with roughly 5,700 students. As the investigation continues, university officials urged students to monitor their VSU email for additional safety information and available support services, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of the campus community remain the school’s top priority.
In a statement shared by Virginia State University, officials gave an update:
“We recognize the concern this incident has caused among our students, parents, alumni, friends, and the broader VSU community. The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority,” the statement shared. “Students should monitor their VSU email for additional safety measures currently in effect and information about available support services.”
