Breaking News: SBI Collaborates in ECSU Campus Shooting Investigation—What You Need to Know

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – Early Sunday morning, around 12:30 a.m., a shooting took place on the campus of Elizabeth City State University (ECSU). This incident occurred during Viking Fest, a celebratory weekend at the university, with an event called Yardfest having started the night before at 8:30 p.m.

Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots. While ECSU has yet to confirm any injuries, the atmosphere on campus has shifted significantly since this tragic event.

In a Facebook post, the university expressed its sorrow, stating, “The university is deeply saddened by this senseless act. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all members of the Viking community affected by this tragedy.”

Authorities from the Elizabeth City Police, Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office, and Camden County Sheriff’s Office are all involved in the investigation. They are working diligently to piece together the events of that night.

In response to this incident, ECSU Counseling Services will open at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday at the Mickey L. Burnim Fine Arts Center. For those needing immediate support, on-call counseling is available at 252-335-3275.

The safety of the campus community is a top priority for ECSU. They have assured students and staff that they will provide updates as more information is available.

Crime rates on college campuses have been a growing concern across the nation. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, incidents of violent crime on college campuses have increased by approximately 7% in recent years. It’s vital for universities to not only respond to these incidents but also to engage in preventive measures, such as improved security protocols and community outreach services.

In the wake of this incident, many students have taken to social media to express their concerns and fears. Conversations around campus safety and mental health support have surged online, highlighting the need for universities to foster environments where students feel secure and supported.

Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact University Police at 252-335-3266.

For those interested in further reading about campus safety, the U.S. Department of Education offers resources on the topic here.

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