- Shooting occurred near Greek Row around 11:30 PM Saturday
- Two male victims hospitalized with critical injuries
- Campus lockdown lifted after police investigation
- Local and campus authorities coordinating response
- University pledges security protocol review
Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at Norfolk State University’s Greek Row section late Saturday night, marking the third campus-related shooting in Virginia this academic year. Police confirmed two male victims were transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, with one sustaining life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred amid heightened concerns about university safety nationwide, particularly at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Norfolk State’s emergency alert system activated within minutes, urging students to shelter in place until 2:45 AM Sunday. This rapid response mirrors protocols developed after Virginia Tech’s 2007 tragedy, where delayed notifications drew national criticism. Campus security experts note that 68% of U.S. universities now use AI-powered surveillance systems, though Norfolk State still relies primarily on human patrols.
Regional data reveals a 17% increase in weapon-related incidents at Virginia colleges since 2020, according to Department of Education reports. A 2023 Richmond Times-Dispatch analysis found urban campuses like Norfolk State face particular challenges, with 43% of students reporting they’ve witnessed violent incidents within two miles of campus.
The university plans to implement new safety measures this fall, including weapon detection scanners at dorm entrances and mandatory active shooter training. These changes follow recommendations from the Virginia Campus Safety Task Force, created after last year’s fatal stabbing at George Mason University. Community leaders have organized a town hall meeting this Thursday to address student concerns.
