Oxford, Pennsylvania — A shooting that erupted during homecoming celebrations at Lincoln University on Saturday night has left one person dead and at least six others injured. Local authorities are investigating the incident, which took place shortly after 9 p.m. outside the school’s International Cultural Center, where large crowds had gathered following a football game.
Chester County District Attorney Chris de Barrena-Sarobe confirmed that one person believed to be armed was arrested. He noted that investigations are ongoing and suggested that multiple individuals could have been involved in the shooting. “Evidence supports the theory that a second shooter may have been present,” he said in a news conference early Sunday.
While the injured victims’ conditions were not immediately disclosed, the local community is anxiously awaiting updates. Witnesses recounted a scene of chaos as gunfire sent attendees fleeing in all directions. Describing the scene, Lincoln University Police Chief Marc Partee stated the shooting disrupted the tailgate festivities that mark the homecoming weekend.
Additional reports indicated that witness accounts varied, with some individuals saying they did not hear the shots but noticed the crowd’s panic as people began to run. “It felt like a stampede,” said Ajia Hopkins, who attended the event with her friend. “Everyone was just trying to get away without any clear understanding of what was happening.”
In the aftermath of the shooting, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro offered the state’s support to the university and local law enforcement. He urged residents to steer clear of the area and expressed concern for the Lincoln University community, urging prayers for those affected.
The incident at Lincoln University follows another shooting incident that occurred during homecoming celebrations at Howard University in Washington, D.C., just days prior, reminding many of the pervasive issue of gun violence, especially during significant community events.
Lincoln University, established as the nation’s first degree-granting historically Black college, promised counseling services for students affected by the violence. The administration has yet to provide substantial information regarding the motives or circumstances leading to the shooting.
As this tragedy unfolds, local authorities are committed to uncovering the details surrounding the incident and ensuring the safety of students and community members moving forward. The investigation is expected to continue as officials seek to bring clarity to an event that has deeply shaken the campus and the surrounding community.