Sign in

Virginia State University shooting: First official update out on ‘multiple suspects’ as 5 injured

Multiple people were injured in a shooting at Virginia State University, leading to a temporary campus lockdown.

Published on: Aug 15, 2026, 18:46:42 IST
Share
Share via
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • linkedin
  • whatsapp
Copy link
  • copy link

Several people sustained injuries in a shooting incident involving multiple suspects at Virginia State University, leading to a temporary lockdown of the campus early Saturday, according to the university's announcement.

A shooting incident at Virginia State University resulted in injuries to several individuals, prompting a campus lockdown
A shooting incident at Virginia State University resulted in injuries to several individuals, prompting a campus lockdown

The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. outside a residence hall on campus, and both campus police and local authorities are conducting an investigation, as per the university. Upon their arrival, law enforcement discovered five people with gunshot injuries.

Virginia State University shooting: Here's what we know about victims

The injured people were transported to local hospitals for medical care. One person is presently in critical condition, whereas the other four have injuries that are not considered life-threatening, according to the university.

University officials said that a "significant law enforcement presence continues on campus" as the police carry on with their investigation. It remains unclear at this time whether any suspects have been apprehended.

Also Read: Who is Melissa L. Farris? 5 things to know as woman charged over World War II Memo vandalism, ‘Clean hands Dirty $’

Virginia State University, located in Chesterfield, Virginia, is a historically Black institution. Classes for the upcoming academic year were scheduled to commence on Monday, as per CBS News affiliate WTVR.

According to Lt. James Lamb with Chesterfield Police, “A significant law enforcement presence remains on campus as investigators process the scene. Virginia State University Police, ATF, and the Hanover County Sheriff's Office are assisting with the ongoing investigation," 6 News reported.

Virginia State University shooting: Any arrest made?

No further information regarding the arrests or the details surrounding the shooting was available at the last update.

School officials have advised students to "continue to avoid the area and follow all law enforcement instructions."

Classes are scheduled to commence at the Historically Black University on Monday. The institution welcomed nearly 1,500 new students during a special pinning ceremony on Friday morning, which featured NFL MVP Cam Newton as the keynote speaker.

If you possess any information that may assist detectives, please contact VSU Police at 804-524-5411, Chesterfield County Police at 804-748-1251, or Crime Solvers at 804-748-0660.

  • Shweta Kukreti
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Shweta Kukreti

    Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.