Tragedy struck Lincoln University during its Homecoming Weekend when gunfire broke out at a celebration, leaving one dead and six others injured. The incident occurred last night at around 9:30 p.m. outside the International Cultural Center, as reported by NBC Philadelphia. Students, alumni, and visitors were sent scattering in the aftermath, seeking safety as the campus was thrown into disarray.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe, in a press conference, indicated the situation was not believed to be a “planned mass shooting” and stated that although one suspect was in custody, the involvement of a second shooter remains a possibility. “It is a very real and distinct possibility,” he said, as quoted by NBC Philadelphia. The university has since lifted the lockdown, assuring no further threat to public safety.
In a statement obtained by 6abc, DA de Barrena-Sarobe spoke of the chaotic nature of the scene, with people fleeing in every direction, and described the night as "devastating." The urgency to collect evidence and piece together the circumstances was evident as he urged the community to come forward with any relevant digital evidence they may possess. "This is particularly important because in this age of cell phones, people have videos. Digital evidence is key for us to putting this together and to be able to go back and hold the shooters accountable for what happened today," Barrena-Sarobe said.
The university extended support to the community by offering counseling services, recognizing the traumatic impact such violence has on those involved. A student witness, Ajia Hopkins, reflected on the event’s shocking nature, telling 6abc, "It's just so sad. It's traumatic, a little bit. You come out here to have a good time and you never expect for this to happen." Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also expressed his concerns, confirming his awareness of the situation and extending his support to the university community.
Law enforcement continues their inquiry into the incident, reaching out to the public for any information which can be reported by calling 1-800-CALLFBI.
