Active Shooting UNLV Las Vegas: In a devastating incident on Wednesday morning, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) became the scene of a tragic active shooting, resulting in three fatalities and one critically injured victim. Law enforcement authorities have identified and neutralized the suspect, a white former college professor in his sixties, who had previously taught in Georgia and North Carolina.
Active Shooting UNLV Las Vegas
The harrowing events unfolded when the university first reported shots fired on campus around 11:53 local time. Subsequently, an additional report of shots near the Student Union building prompted urgent warnings to students, advising them to “evacuate to a safe area” and follow the “RUN-HIDE-FIGHT” protocol – a standard active shooter procedure in the US.
University police chief Adam Garcia revealed that two campus officers engaged the gunman in a shootout, resulting in the suspect’s death. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown, as emphasized by Kevin McMahill, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department sheriff, during a press conference.
The tragic incident has left one victim in critical condition and another in stable condition at a local hospital. Four additional individuals were hospitalized for panic attacks, while two police officers received treatment for minor injuries sustained during the response.
President Joe Biden expressed his condolences, stating that UNLV is the “latest college campus to be terrorized by a horrific act of gun violence.” The mayor of Las Vegas, Carolyn Goodman, described the news as “tragic and heart-breaking” and offered prayers for everyone affected.
UNLV Shooting Update
In response to the shooting, UNLV, along with other institutions under the Southern Nevada System of Higher Education, decided to close for the remainder of the day. The university’s management announced the closure of the campus for Thursday and Friday as well.
A ground stop was issued at Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport due to security concerns, with road closures around the airport affecting travelers. Authorities urged people to check their flight statuses amid the ongoing police activity.
As the investigation into the incident progresses, the FBI and ATF are providing assistance to local law enforcement. Nevada’s Governor Joe Lombardo affirmed constant communication with Las Vegas police, the university, and emergency responders.
To support those affected, the Clark County Fire Department established a family reunification center at the Las Vegas Convention Center, offering a space for families to reunite and receive information.
The UNLV shooting is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges surrounding gun violence on college campuses. As the nation grapples with this tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the affected families and understanding the circumstances that led to this devastating event.
