Authorities are actively investigating a shooting that took place late Saturday night on the campus of Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), sending shockwaves through the small northeastern North Carolina community.
According to early reports from the Elizabeth City State University Police Department, the incident occurred shortly before midnight near the university’s student center, a popular gathering spot for both campus residents and visitors. Multiple gunshots were reported by students and staff, prompting an immediate lockdown of the campus.
Emergency services quickly responded to 911 calls, and university police were joined by officers from the Elizabeth City Police Department and Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office in securing the scene. Upon arrival, law enforcement found one individual suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim, whose identity has not been released pending family notification, was transported to Sentara Albemarle Medical Center for treatment. As of Sunday morning, hospital officials reported that the individual was in stable condition.
ECSU Chancellor Dr. Karrie Dixon issued a statement early Sunday, expressing concern for the safety and well-being of the university community.
“The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our highest priority,” Dixon said. “We are deeply troubled by this act of violence and are working closely with law enforcement agencies as they conduct a thorough investigation. Counseling services are being made available to any students or employees who need support during this time.”
At this stage, few details have been confirmed about the suspect or suspects involved. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from around the campus and interviewing witnesses who were in the area at the time of the shooting. Authorities have not commented on a possible motive, and no arrests have been made as of Sunday afternoon.
University officials canceled all classes scheduled for Monday as a precaution and announced increased security measures across campus, including additional patrols and ID checks at residence halls and other key locations.
The incident has rattled the ECSU community, a historically Black university known for its close-knit campus environment and strong ties to the Elizabeth City region. Parents and students gathered in the aftermath, some visibly shaken, as they awaited updates and reassurances about safety protocols moving forward.
Sophomore Jasmine Carter, who lives in a dormitory near where the shooting occurred, described the terrifying moments following the gunfire.
“I was just getting ready for bed when I heard what sounded like fireworks,” she said. “Then I realized people were yelling and running. I stayed in my room and locked the door until we got the all-clear from campus police.”
Community leaders, including Elizabeth City Mayor Kirk Rivers, also spoke out, urging calm and pledging full support for the ongoing investigation.
“Violence has no place in our community or on our campuses,” Rivers said. “We are committed to finding those responsible and ensuring that ECSU remains a safe place for higher learning and personal growth.”
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has been called in to assist local authorities, bringing additional forensic resources and expertise to the case. Investigators are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. A tip line has been set up by the ECSU Police Department, and officials have assured the public that tips can be made anonymously.
The university has also scheduled a town hall meeting for Tuesday evening, where students, parents, faculty, and staff will have the opportunity to hear directly from university leaders and law enforcement about next steps and safety enhancements.
As Elizabeth City State University and the broader community grapple with the emotional aftermath, many are expressing solidarity and support through social media, prayer vigils, and messages of resilience.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have pledged to provide updates as new information becomes available.
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