ELIZABETH CITY, NORTH CAROLINA — Fear and disbelief gripped Elizabeth City late Saturday night after a shooting erupted on the campus of Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), sending students, alumni, and local residents into a state of shock.
The incident occurred just before midnight near Bias Hall, one of the university’s main residential buildings. According to early reports from the Elizabeth City Police Department (ECPD), shots were fired in an area frequented by students, triggering an immediate shelter-in-place order across the ECSU campus.
Law enforcement, university security, and emergency personnel responded swiftly, securing the scene and launching an intensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As of Sunday morning, no fatalities have been reported, but authorities have confirmed that at least one individual was injured and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their condition remains undisclosed.
Immediate Response and Lockdown
Shortly after the first reports of gunfire, ECSU officials sent emergency alerts to students and staff, advising them to stay indoors and lock their doors. Within minutes, the campus was placed under full lockdown, as police combed the area for potential suspects and witnesses.
The shelter-in-place order remained active for several hours as investigators worked through the night. By early morning, officials had lifted the order, assuring the public that there was no immediate threat, though cautioning that the investigation was ongoing.
“We acted quickly to secure the safety of our students and community members,” said ECSU Chancellor Dr. Karrie Dixon during a press conference Sunday afternoon. “Our priority was, and continues to be, the well-being of everyone on our campus.”
Investigation Underway
As of the latest updates, ECPD has not publicly identified any suspects or announced any arrests related to the shooting. Police are reviewing surveillance footage, collecting physical evidence from the scene, and interviewing witnesses in hopes of piecing together the events that led to the violence.
Officials have urged anyone with information to come forward, stressing that community cooperation is critical in bringing those responsible to justice.
“This type of violence has no place in Elizabeth City, much less on a college campus where young people should feel safe,” said Police Chief Phillip Webster. “We are committed to a thorough and exhaustive investigation.”
Shockwaves Through the Community
The shooting has deeply rattled the ECSU community — a tight-knit, historically Black university with a proud tradition of academic excellence and campus pride. Students spent a tense night fielding calls and texts from worried loved ones. Parents, many living hours away, described the anguish of not knowing if their children were safe.
“I got the alert and my heart just dropped,” said sophomore Jasmine Hill, who barricaded herself and several dormmates in a room during the lockdown. “We never thought something like this would happen here.”
Alumni and city leaders have also expressed their sorrow and support, calling for unity and vigilance in the wake of the tragedy.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder that we must continue to work together to create safe environments — not just on campuses, but throughout our community,” said Mayor Bettie Parker in a statement released Sunday morning.
Looking Ahead
In the coming days, ECSU plans to offer counseling services and support resources for students, faculty, and staff affected by the traumatic event. University officials have stated they will also review campus security protocols and explore additional safety measures.
A campus-wide prayer vigil is being organized for Monday evening, where students, faculty, and community members will gather to stand in solidarity and reflect.
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