Police apprehended a 19-year-old individual concealed in a closet within a dormitory at Virginia State University on Saturday following an overnight shooting on campus that resulted in five individuals being wounded, with one sustaining critical injuries. Camron Harris, hailing from Henrico, Va., is not enrolled as a student at the university, and neither were four of the injured victims, confirmed the Chesterfield County Police. The age range of the wounded individuals spanned from 17 to 23 years, with one of the injured, a 20-year-old student, already discharged from medical care. The identities of the victims have not been disclosed.
Law enforcement officials have not disclosed any potential motives for the incident. Harris faces eight felony warrants, including charges of malicious wounding and firearm use during a felony. It remains unclear whether he has legal representation to speak on his behalf.
Initial statements from the university indicated a search for multiple suspects, although no further details were provided by the police on Saturday evening regarding the ongoing investigation. Campus authorities had earlier reassured the community of no immediate threats following the incident, leading to the lifting of the campus lockdown.
The shooting occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, prompting the campus lockdown, coinciding with students’ preparations for the upcoming academic year.
The incident transpired close to the university’s Quad Annexes, where law enforcement personnel found five individuals with gunshot wounds outside the dormitories. The university’s residential facilities had opened a week prior, with classes set to resume on Monday. Many students had recently participated in the “New Trojans Experience” orientation program for new enrollees.
In response to the incident, the university expressed understanding of the concerns raised among various stakeholders, emphasizing the priority placed on student safety and well-being. A significant law enforcement presence was noted on campus during the morning, with students advised to remain vigilant for updates via email regarding safety protocols and support services. Additional assistance was being provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, alongside the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, as confirmed by county police.
Situated in Ettrick, Va., approximately 40 kilometers south of Richmond, Virginia State University is a historically Black institution with a student population of about 5,700. The university, which primarily serves undergraduates, has witnessed growth in recent years as it endeavors to enhance safety measures while preserving its historical significance. Arthur Fridrich, the university’s former director of distance education, residing near the campus, expressed sorrow over the shooting’s timing coinciding with the commencement of classes, acknowledging the emotional toll it may have on the community.
Fridrich conveyed heartfelt sentiments for the victims, expressing hope for their swift recovery and resilience in overcoming the impact of the tragic incident on their academic journey.
