Tragedy Strikes University of Nevada, Las Vegas Campus
A shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) on Wednesday left three people dead and one injured. The suspected gunman, a former professor who had previously applied for a job at the university, was killed in a shootout with law enforcement. The incident sent shock waves through the city, which is still recovering from a mass shooting in 2017 that claimed the lives of 60 people.
Background and Attack Details
The suspect, whose identity has not been released, had previously worked at East Carolina University in North Carolina. The motive behind the attack is still unknown. The shooting began on the fourth floor of UNLV’s Lee Business School building and the gunman moved to several other floors before being confronted by two university detectives.
Students and professors took shelter in classrooms and dorm rooms as police swarmed the campus in response to reports of shots fired. The all-clear was given approximately 40 minutes after the initial report. Professor Kevaney Martin described the terrifying experience and the relief she felt when she and her students were able to evacuate safely.
Community Response and Impact
The university alerted students and the community to the emergency through a post on social media, urging them to “RUN-HIDE-FIGHT.” Students took immediate action, barricading doors and contacting loved ones. Matthew Felsenfeld, a journalism student, described the moment he called his parents to express his love for them.
Jordan Eckermann, a business law student, recounted his experience inside the classroom and his encounter with a law enforcement officer during the evacuation. The campus, which is located less than 2 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, was filled with students who were enjoying their break when the shooting occurred.
Law Enforcement Response and Future Precautions
Sheriff Kevin McMahill praised the quick response of law enforcement, stating that their actions potentially saved countless lives. He emphasized that no student should have to fear for their safety on a college campus. The shooting took place near the site of the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history, further heightening the tragedy.
In response to the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop at Harry Reid International Airport, located near the university. Classes at UNLV were canceled through Friday, and a basketball game was also canceled as a result of the shootings.