On Monday night, the city of East Lansing, Michigan, was rocked by news of a mass shooting on the campus of Michigan State University (MSU). Four fatalities and five wounded were reported
During a press conference, MSU Police and Public Safety Interim Deputy Chief Chris Rozman confirmed that the harrowing incident occurred shortly after 8 pm. MSU police sent an alarming text alert to its student body to take cover because there was an active shooter on the campus.
“MSU Police report shots fired incident occurring on or near the East Lansing campus. Secure-in-Place immediately. Run, Hide, Fight. Run means evacuate away from danger if you can do so safely. Hide means to secure-in-place. And Fight means protect yourself if no other option.”
In total, eight people were shot by a suspect, described as a short Black man wearing a jean jacket and a baseball hat. Three people died, and five (some critically injured) were transported to nearby Sparrow Hospital. Because an investigation is still ongoing and relatives of the victims still have to be notified, MSU police did not disclose the names of the victims.
Rozman shared, “There are 3 confirmed fatalities. This is in addition to the 5 victims who have been transported to the hospital.”
“All campus activities are canceled for 48 hours, including athletics, classes, and all campus-related activities. Please DO NOT come to campus tomorrow.”
He also confirmed that of the three fatalities– two were at Berkey Hall and one at the campus’ popular hotspot, The Union.
Rozman also praised neighboring law enforcement agencies for their assistance and quick action. The FBI is also a part of the investigation. Initial reports from a police scanner suggested that the mass shooting involved more than one gunman.
East Lansing authorities have no motive for the shooting, nor has the suspect been identified. It’s not known if the man was a student at Michigan State University. Also, the type of gun used in the crime had not been revealed. They did confirm that he killed himself at an off-campus location shortly before 12:30 am.
The inquiry into the mass shooting is ongoing.
