UNCW Placed on Lockdown After Reports of Armed Individual on Campus
WILMINGTON, N.C. (Sept. 18, 2025) — The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) was placed on lockdown Friday afternoon following unconfirmed reports of an armed individual on campus, according to university officials.
The incident began shortly after 1:30 p.m., when UNCW Police received multiple calls about a possible person with a gun near an academic building. Within minutes, campus police issued a “Shelter in Place” alert, urging students, staff, and faculty to stay inside and lock doors until further notice.
Emergency Response
Dozens of officers from UNCW Police, the Wilmington Police Department, and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office quickly responded to the scene. Heavily armed officers were seen canvassing the campus, moving strategically between classroom buildings and residence halls. Law enforcement worked to secure the area and assess whether there was an active threat.
Police have not confirmed the presence of a firearm, and as of Friday evening, no injuries were reported. However, officials stressed that they were taking every precaution to ensure the safety of students and staff.
“We treat every report with the highest level of seriousness,” said a university spokesperson. “The safety of our campus community is our top priority.”
Campus in Lockdown
For several tense hours, students and staff sheltered in classrooms, offices, and dormitories. Social media filled with updates as students shared images of barricaded doors and messages of concern for friends and classmates.
“It was terrifying — we didn’t know what was happening,” said sophomore Jessica Ramirez. “Everyone was quiet and just waiting for updates. You could hear the helicopters above and see police outside.”
The university issued frequent updates through its emergency alert system, eventually lifting the lockdown just after 4:30 p.m., once law enforcement determined there was no ongoing threat.
Investigation Underway
Police are continuing to investigate the reports that triggered the lockdown. Authorities are interviewing witnesses, reviewing security camera footage, and working to determine whether the individual seen with a weapon was indeed armed. Officials have not announced whether any arrests have been made.
University leaders confirmed they will conduct a full review of the emergency response and communication procedures. “We are grateful for the quick response of law enforcement and the cooperation of our campus community,” said UNCW Chancellor Aswani Volety. “Today was a reminder of the importance of being prepared.”
Community Reaction
The lockdown rattled both students and families, with many parents rushing to contact their children during the ordeal. Local businesses near campus also briefly closed as a precaution.
By Friday evening, students gathered in small groups to process the day’s events, with counseling services made available for those experiencing anxiety or trauma related to the incident.
“This was a frightening situation, even though no one was harmed,” said Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo. “We’re thankful it ended safely, but it underscores the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.”
Looking Ahead
Classes and activities at UNCW are expected to resume on a normal schedule Saturday, though an increased police presence will remain on campus as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information about the reported armed individual is asked to contact the UNCW Police Department at (910) 962-2222 or submit an anonymous tip through the university’s reporting system.
