Fayetteville State University, a historically Black university (HBCU), was placed on lockdown Thursday following reports of an armed individual on campus.
Stock image of Fayetteville State University.
University officials issued an emergency alert urging students, faculty, and staff to shelter in place immediately and barricade themselves in secure locations. The alert, sent out shortly before noon, warned the campus community to remain indoors until further notice and to avoid windows and exterior doors.
Police and campus security officers responded rapidly, sweeping buildings and securing the area as they worked to locate the individual. As of Thursday afternoon, no injuries had been reported, but authorities said the situation remained “active and fluid.”
The university released a brief statement on social media confirming the lockdown:
“Fayetteville State University is currently on lockdown due to reports of an armed person on or near campus. Please shelter in place, lock doors, and stay away from windows. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Fayetteville Police Department and the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, have joined campus police in responding to the scene. Nearby roads have been closed, and surrounding schools have reportedly taken precautionary safety measures.
Videos and posts circulating on social media show students taking cover inside classrooms and residence halls as police cars and emergency vehicles surround the area.
Fayetteville State University, part of the University of North Carolina system, serves more than 6,700 students and is one of the nation’s oldest public historically Black universities.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact campus police and reminding the public to avoid the area until the lockdown is lifted.
