A shooting during homecoming festivities at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania left one person dead and six others injured on Saturday night, according to officials. The incident occurred just after 9 p.m. near the football field, prompting a lockdown and law enforcement response.
The shooting took place during a tailgate and yardfest event at the university’s campus in Chester County. Seven people were struck by gunfire outside the International Cultural Center, with one victim succumbing to injuries and the others receiving medical treatment. Authorities have detained one individual who was in possession of a gun, but the motive remains unclear, and investigators are exploring the possibility of multiple shooters.
In the immediate aftermath, the campus was placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure. Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe confirmed that the lockdown has been lifted and there is no ongoing threat to the community. Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies are collaborating on the investigation, with the crime scene remaining active.
Several of the injured were transported to hospitals in nearby Delaware for care. Additionally, first responders treated individuals at the scene for injuries sustained from being knocked down and trampled as the crowd fled in panic. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes, with one person seen receiving CPR and others running for cover.
University officials expressed deep sorrow over the violence. Lincoln’s Director of Public Safety, Marc R. Partee, described homecoming as a time for alumni to celebrate and give back, calling the shooting an unwarranted interruption. The university has announced that counseling services will be available starting Sunday morning to support students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro stated that he has been briefed on the incident and offered his administration’s full support to the university and local law enforcement. He joined others in calling for prayers for the Lincoln University community. The shooting occurred just a day after a similar incident near Howard University in Washington, D.C., where five people were injured during homecoming activities, highlighting recurring concerns about gun violence at such events.
Lincoln University, founded in 1854, is the nation’s oldest degree-granting historically Black college or university. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the FBI. The community is rallying together in the wake of this tragedy, focusing on healing and safety measures for the future.