Five people were shot near Virginia State University’s Quad Annexes in the early hours of Saturday, days before classes resume, and investigators are seeking multiple suspects. The Daily Mail reported that “multiple gunmen remained at large” as of Saturday evening.
What officials have confirmed
According to campus police and Chesterfield County officers, the shooting occurred around 1:30 a.m. near dormitories in the university’s Quad Annexes. Responding officers found five people with gunshot wounds. None of the victims died; one was in critical condition as of Saturday evening, while the others had non-life-threatening injuries, the Daily Mail reported.
University officials stated the incident involved “multiple suspects.” As of the time reported, authorities had not publicly identified the victims or released information about the shooters, and there was no indication police had identified any suspects.
The university said at least one person wounded was a student. That individual’s injuries were not life-threatening and the student has been released from the hospital.
Lockdown lifted, patrols increased
Officials said police later determined there was no immediate threat to the campus community and lifted a lockdown. In a university statement, Virginia State said campus police would maintain an increased presence as the investigation continues, urged students to monitor their VSU email for safety updates and support resources, and asked the community to avoid the active investigation area.
Timing and campus context
The Daily Mail reported the shooting came as new freshmen arrived on campus and only hours after students took part in the “New Trojans Experience,” where former NFL quarterback Cam Newton spoke. Residence halls opened a week earlier; classes were set to resume Monday, according to the report.
Recent history and a local response
The Daily Mail’s coverage noted previous gun violence affecting VSU: five people were wounded in three separate attacks in 2022, and one person was wounded and another killed near campus last year.
“Virginia State University is my alma mater. Waking up to this news is heartbreaking,” said Rozia Henson, a Democratic member of the Virginia House of Delegates. “My prayers are with everyone affected this morning, with their families, and with the entire Trojan family. VSU, we are with you.”
Authorities have not released suspect descriptions or announced arrests as of the time reported.
