Kathmandu— A shooting occurred early Saturday morning near the Quad Annexes at Virginia State University in Ettrick, Virginia, wounding five individuals and triggering an hours-long lockdown of the historically Black college. Police from both the university and Chesterfield County are actively investigating the incident, which involved multiple suspects, with all victims currently hospitalized. The school lifted the campus-wide lockdown around 8:21 am GMT but maintains a significant law enforcement presence as the investigation continues.

Shooting Details

The shooting took place near Virginia State University’s residence halls. Five people were injured and transported to hospitals, with one listed in critical condition according to university officials.

The school issued a statement urging students and staff to avoid the area and follow instructions from law enforcement.

Campus Lockdown Lifted

Virginia State University announced at 8:21 am GMT that the initial campus-wide lockdown had been lifted. However, authorities emphasized that a substantial police presence will remain on campus as part of the ongoing investigation.

The university is encouraging anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the Chesterfield County Police Department, which is leading the inquiry.

University Background

Virginia State University is a historically Black institution located in Ettrick, Virginia, approximately 24 miles south of Richmond. It currently serves around 5,700 students and holds the distinction of being the first fully state-supported four-year college for Black Americans.

Recent Campus Gun Violence

Gun violence on US college campuses remains a persistent issue. The Gun Violence Archive recorded 100 incidents involving shootings resulting in injuries or fatalities at higher education institutions in 2025, with a total of 75 shootings that year.

The incident comes after other recent campus shootings, including the tragic events at Virginia Tech in 2007, where 32 people were killed and 17 wounded, and an earlier shooting this year at Old Dominion University which left one instructor dead and two others injured.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released details regarding potential motives or suspects. Classes are scheduled to begin soon, and the university is working to ensure a safe environment for students and staff.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.