Key facts
- Five individuals were shot outside residence halls at Virginia State University early Saturday.
- One victim is in critical condition, while the other four sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
- The university reported that multiple suspects were involved in the shooting.
- A campus-wide lockdown was implemented and subsequently lifted, though a heavy police presence remains.
- The Chesterfield County Police Department is heading the investigation, with support from federal and local agencies.
Five people were shot and wounded, one critically, outside residence halls at Virginia State University early Saturday morning, prompting a campus-wide lockdown. The university reported that multiple suspects were involved in the incident, which occurred near the Quad Annexes. All five victims were transported to area hospitals. The Chesterfield County Police Department is leading the investigation, with assistance from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. The lockdown was lifted later in the morning, but a significant law enforcement presence remained on campus. The shootings occurred just days before the start of the academic year, with classes scheduled to begin on Monday. Governor Abigail Spanberger expressed her thoughts for those affected and thanked first responders.