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In the early morning hours of Sunday, April 27, 2025, a shooting occurred at the center of campus at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU).

“The incident took place following Yard Fest, part of the Viking Fest events held in the quad area. Six individuals were injured during the incident. Four sustained gunshot wounds, including three ECSU students. Additionally, two other ECSU students were injured during the subsequent commotion,” stated an ECSU news release. “A 24-year-old man, who was not an ECSU student, was pronounced deceased. His identity is being withheld pending notification of his next of kin.”

In response to the incident, ECSU implemented a campus lockdown and issued a shelter-in-place order for all students. The lockdown was lifted later on Sunday 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, noted the release.

The investigation is ongoing. The SBI is asking for the public’s help in this case. “If anyone has any information, videos or pictures at the event, please contact the SBI at 919-662-4500 or the ECSU PD at 252-335-3266,” stated a news release from SBI.

“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,” stated the ECSU news release.

Sunday night, Governor Josh Stein issued the following statement: “I have been in touch with ECSU Chancellor Edmonds and Police Chief Cuthbertson following the tragic shooting to offer my support and condolences. My heart goes out to the family and friends of the person who was killed, and Anna and I are praying for the other victims.”

On Monday, ECSU Interim Chancellor Dr. Catherine Edmonds issued the following statement:

“Like many of you, I am devastated by the shooting incident that took place over the weekend. Sadly, a 24-year-old man visiting our campus lost his life. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. I’m also sending support and well wishes to our students who were injured on Sunday.

“The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and community remain our highest priorities. In response, we have cancelled classes and all campus events for Monday, Apr. 28 and Tuesday, Apr. 29. All classes will transition to remote learning beginning Wednesday, Apr. 30 through the final three days of the semester, and exams will be delivered remotely.

“Please know that support services are available for students, faculty, and staff. For students, please visit or contact ECSU Counseling Services or the Office of the Dean of Students. After-hours and on-call counseling services remain available at 252-335-3275. Faculty and staff should reach out to the Employee Assistance Program at 866-511-3365.

“I am grateful for the swift actions of ECSU Police, local law enforcement, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, whose coordinated response ensured the safety of our campus.

“The Viking community is resilient and, remember, we are family. We will get through this together. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and every member of our campus community affected by the tragedy.”

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