In the early hours of Sunday, April 27, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) in North Carolina, resulting in one fatality and six injuries. The incident took place during Yard Fest, the concluding event of the university’s weeklong Viking Fest celebration, held in the campus quad area.

Victims and Injuries

The deceased was a 24-year-old man who was not enrolled at ECSU. His identity has not been released pending notification of his next of kin. Among the injured were four individuals who sustained gunshot wounds, including three ECSU students. Two additional students were injured during the ensuing commotion. All injured parties were transported to a local hospital, and none of the injuries are considered life-threatening. ​

University and Law Enforcement Response

In response to the shooting, ECSU implemented a campus lockdown and issued a shelter-in-place order for all students.The lockdown was lifted later that day after law enforcement officials determined that the campus was safe. The ECSU Police, along with the Elizabeth City Police Department, Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office, Camden County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, responded swiftly and are actively investigating the situation. ​

Support Services and Ongoing Investigation

ECSU has increased patrols across campus, and access to the center of campus remained restricted throughout Sunday.Support services for students, faculty, and staff were made available at Bias Hall, University Suites, Viking Towers, and University Towers. On-call and after-hours counseling services are also accessible by calling 252-335-3275. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact ECSU Police at 252-335-3266. ​

ECSU extends its deepest sympathies to all those affected by this tragic event and remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the Viking community.