LAS VEGAS – Newly released videos show a campus police officer bravely confronting a gunman at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, after a deadly shooting spree that claimed the lives of three professors and left another severely injured. The footage captured moments of intense terror when the 67-year-old former professor opened fire outside a building on campus last December. The shooter, Anthony Polito, armed with a 9 mm handgun and a list of names, engaged in a 10-minute rampage that ended in tragedy.
The University released 20 hours of security footage and 911 call recordings, shedding light on the events of that fateful day. The sounds of gunfire echoed through the halls of the business school, sending people fleeing in fear. Police responded swiftly, with a campus officer arriving within seconds of the shooting. The chilling recordings and videos serve as a stark reminder of the devastation caused by the attack.
Among the chaos, a father called 911 after receiving a text from his daughter, who was in hiding. The dispatcher confirmed an active shooter on campus, urging the father to keep his daughter safe. Security footage shows officers rushing into the business school building as police swarmed the area. The gunman, dressed in a black trench coat, calmly made his way towards the building, his intentions clear.
Despite the tragedy, there were moments of heroism as well. Officers assisted a wounded professor who managed to escape the building before collapsing. Thanks to their quick actions, the professor is now recovering and undergoing rehabilitation. The community at UNLV has rallied together in the wake of the shooting, determined to heal and move forward.
The release of the videos coincided with ongoing investigations into the incident, with authorities confirming the gunman acted alone. The campus had been on high alert following the shooting, situated just miles away from the site of another tragic mass shooting. The events serve as a somber reminder of the need for increased security measures and preparedness in the face of such tragedies.
As the university continues to mourn the loss of the professors and support those affected, the videos stand as a poignant tribute to their memory. The bravery and swift response of law enforcement personnel serve as a testament to their dedication and commitment to protecting the community. In the face of tragedy, the UNLV community remains resilient, determined to honor the lives lost and ensure the safety of all who call the campus home.