Active Shooter Reported at Bowling Green State University
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — A terrifying situation unfolded on the campus of Bowling Green State University (BGSU) after reports of an active shooter sent students, faculty, and staff scrambling for safety.
According to early information from university officials, the incident began in the late afternoon hours when emergency calls came in regarding shots fired on or near the main campus. Within minutes, BGSU police, along with local law enforcement and state authorities, were on scene, locking down campus buildings and issuing emergency alerts to students through the university’s emergency notification system.
Campus on Lockdown
Witnesses described chaos and confusion as students were urged to “shelter in place” while police worked to secure the area. The university’s emergency text system warned students to stay indoors, avoid windows, and await further instructions. Some students barricaded themselves in classrooms, while others sought safety in residence halls and nearby buildings.
The BGSU Police Department confirmed that they were coordinating with the Bowling Green Police Division, the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, and Ohio State Highway Patrol to respond to the situation. A heavy law enforcement presence, including SWAT teams, surrounded parts of campus as officers moved building to building to ensure safety.
Reports of Victims
Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of victims or their conditions, but multiple witnesses reported hearing gunfire near a central campus facility. Emergency medical personnel were seen transporting at least one individual to a local hospital. The extent of injuries and whether there were fatalities has not yet been disclosed.
Students React
Students on campus took to social media to share their fear and confusion, posting updates as they sheltered in place. “This is the scariest moment of my life,” one student wrote. Others shared images of locked classroom doors and crowded dorm hallways as the campus community braced for updates.
Parents and loved ones of BGSU students expressed deep concern as they waited for official word from authorities. University officials have urged families to avoid traveling to campus until the situation is fully under control.
Investigation Underway
The identity of the suspected shooter has not been released, and authorities have not yet stated whether the shooter has been apprehended or remains at large. As of now, law enforcement officials are treating the situation as an active threat, and investigations into what sparked the violence are ongoing.
The FBI and ATF have also been notified and may assist in the investigation depending on developments.
University Statement
In a brief statement, BGSU leadership expressed their shock and concern for the entire university community. “Our first priority is the safety of our students, faculty, and staff. We are working closely with law enforcement as this situation unfolds. Please continue to shelter in place until you receive the official all-clear,” the statement read.
Community on Edge
The city of Bowling Green has rallied behind the campus community, with local leaders expressing solidarity and urging calm as law enforcement works to secure the scene. Churches, businesses, and community centers in the area have offered safe spaces for those in need once students and staff are able to leave campus.
Developing Story
At this time, many questions remain unanswered, including the motive behind the shooting, the number of victims, and whether the suspect is in custody. Authorities stress that this is a developing and fluid situation, and additional details will be released as they become available.
