“Deadly Shooting at Elizabeth City State University Leaves One Dead, Six Injured; Investigation Underway”
ELIZABETH CITY, North Carolina — A tragic shooting occurred early Sunday morning, April 27, 2025, at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), resulting in one fatality and six injuries. The incident took place around 12:30 a.m. in the center of the campus following Yard Fest, the final event of the university’s weeklong Viking Fest celebration. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has been requested by the ECSU Police Department to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Incident Details
According to the Associated Press, a 24-year-old man who was not a student at ECSU was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not been released pending family notification. Among the six injured, four sustained gunshot wounds, including three students, while two other students were injured during the ensuing chaos. None of the injuries are considered life-threatening, and all victims have been transported to a local medical center for treatment.
Law Enforcement Response
The ECSU Police Department, along with the Elizabeth City Police, Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office, Camden County Sheriff’s Office, and the SBI, are actively investigating the shooting. The university was placed under lockdown following the incident, which has since been lifted. Increased patrols have been implemented across the campus for added safety, and access to the center of campus remains limited.
Community Impact and Support
ECSU officials have expressed deep sorrow over the incident. In a statement, the university said, “The university is deeply saddened by this senseless act. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all members of the Viking community affected by this tragedy.”
To support those affected, ECSU Counseling Services will be available beginning Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Mickey L. Burnim Fine Arts Center. For immediate assistance, on-call and after-hours counseling support is offered at 252-335-3275.
Public Assistance Requested
The SBI is urging anyone with information, videos, or pictures related to the event to contact them at 919-662-4500 or the ECSU Police Department at 252-335-3266. As this is an ongoing investigation, information is currently limited. Further details will be shared through press releases, social media updates, and the SBI’s website as they become available.