The University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) went into lockdown on Wednesday afternoon after a video surfaced showing a man carrying what appeared to be a firearm near a student residence hall.
The alarming footage, reportedly taken near Riverview Suites, quickly spread online, prompting university officials to issue an immediate shelter-in-place order. Students, staff, and faculty received emergency alerts instructing them to stay indoors and lock their doors while police swarmed the campus.
Swift Law Enforcement Response
Within minutes, a coordinated response unfolded. UMass Lowell Police, Lowell police, Massachusetts State Police, and even the FBI Boston division converged on the scene. Using surveillance cameras around campus, investigators confirmed the video’s authenticity.
Authorities described the suspect as an Asian male, about 5’5″ tall, wearing a gray or white sweatshirt and black shorts, and carrying what looked like a long gun. Despite the serious concern, officials reassured the public that there were no reports of gunfire and the incident was not considered an active shooter situation.
Campus on Edge
For hours, tension gripped the student body. Many barricaded themselves in classrooms and dorms, while others texted family members to say they were safe. The lockdown was lifted later that evening after police determined the suspect had left the area, but officers maintained a visible presence across campus overnight as a precaution.
Nearby, Middlesex Community College canceled classes at its Lowell and Bedford campuses, citing heavy traffic delays and the ongoing police investigation. The incident disrupted not only campus life but also the wider community, as major roads around the university were temporarily shut down.
No Injuries, but Ongoing Concerns
Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Still, questions remain about who the suspect was and why he was carrying a weapon so close to student housing. Investigators have not confirmed whether the firearm was real or if charges will follow, but the search for answers continues.
Students expressed both relief and unease after the lockdown ended. “I was scared, honestly. We didn’t know if it was real or a drill,” said one student. “Even when they lifted the order, people were nervous about stepping outside.”
FBI Urges Vigilance
The FBI has urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity. Officials emphasized that while the immediate threat had passed, vigilance is essential in keeping campuses safe.
For the thousands of students who call UMass Lowell home, the scare was a sobering reminder of how quickly a normal day can turn upside down.
FAQ: What We Know So Far
Q: Was this an active shooter situation?
A: No. Officials confirmed there were no shots fired and emphasized this was not an active shooter case.
Q: What did the suspect look like?
A: The man was described as 5’5″, Asian, wearing a gray or white sweatshirt and black shorts, and carrying what looked like a long gun.
Q: Was anyone hurt?
A: Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Q: Is the suspect still at large?
A: Yes. Authorities lifted the lockdown after determining the suspect had left the immediate area, but the investigation remains active.
Q: Who responded to the incident?
A: The response involved UMass Lowell Police, Lowell police, Massachusetts State Police, and the FBI.
