Albany State University Lockdown Lifted After Shooting Near East Campus
ALBANY, Ga. — A tense situation unfolded Sunday afternoon near Albany State University’s East Campus, where gunfire prompted a lockdown and a wave of concern across the ASU community. Officials have since confirmed that the lockdown has been lifted, though the investigation remains active.
According to WALB, a 17-year-old girl was shot in the area and rushed to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, where she is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Her identity has not been released, and authorities have not provided details on her condition beyond initial updates.
The incident began when ASU students and staff received an emergency text alert instructing them to seek immediate shelter. The message read: “This is NOT a test. Report of gunshots fired near east campus. Seek shelter. For safety, lock doors and remain inside until an all clear has been issued.”
Students quickly followed lockdown protocols, with many barricading themselves in dorm rooms and classrooms as a heavy police presence descended on the area. The Wild Pines Apartments, located at 600 Sands Drive near the East Campus, became a focal point of law enforcement activity. Witnesses reported seeing officers detain at least one man in handcuffs at the scene.
By late afternoon, the university issued an “all clear,” allowing students and staff to resume normal activities, though the shock and unease remained palpable across campus.
The Albany Police Department confirmed that the shooting remains under investigation. Authorities are waiting for a search warrant to further process the scene and have not yet released details regarding potential suspects, motives, or whether the detained individual is connected to the shooting.
Parents, community members, and ASU students expressed both relief and concern as updates emerged. Many praised the university’s quick communication and emergency response, while others voiced fears about safety in the neighborhoods surrounding campus.
University officials have encouraged students to make use of counseling and support services in the wake of the traumatic event.
As investigators continue their work, the community remains hopeful for the young victim’s recovery and looks to law enforcement for answers about what led to the violence so close to a place of learning and growth.
