Gunfire at Jackson County Public Library Sends Shockwaves Through Seymour Community
SEYMOUR, IN — A quiet afternoon in Seymour was violently interrupted on Wednesday when gunfire erupted inside the Jackson County Public Library, located at 303 W. Second Street. The incident, which occurred around noon, has left the tight-knit community reeling and raised urgent questions about public safety in spaces traditionally considered safe havens.
According to initial reports, shots were fired within the main area of the library while patrons, including children and elderly residents, were present. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as the sounds of gunfire echoed through the building. Several individuals were seen fleeing the premises, while others sought cover behind bookshelves and furniture.
Emergency calls flooded 911 dispatchers shortly after the incident began, prompting an immediate and robust response from local, county, and state law enforcement agencies. Officers from the Seymour Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Indiana State Police converged on the scene within minutes, securing the building and evacuating patrons and staff to safety.
Authorities confirmed that multiple rounds were fired, though as of Wednesday evening, the number of victims, if any, had not been officially released. It remains unclear whether anyone was injured or whether the shooter was apprehended on the scene or remains at large. Police have not yet revealed the motive behind the shooting, and the investigation is ongoing.
“We want to assure the public that there is no ongoing threat at this time,” said Seymour Police Chief Brian Williams during a press conference. “Our officers, along with our partners at the county and state level, are conducting a thorough investigation. We are asking anyone who was in or near the library around noon today to come forward with any information, photos, or video footage that might assist in the investigation.”
The Jackson County Public Library was immediately closed following the incident, and officials have not announced when it will reopen. Library staff, some of whom were visibly shaken, are being offered support services, including counseling.
Mayor Matt Nicholson issued a statement expressing solidarity with those affected. “Our thoughts are with everyone who experienced today’s traumatic events,” he said. “Seymour is a strong community, and we will support each other as we process what happened and seek justice for any wrongdoing.”
Parents rushed to nearby schools and childcare centers to check on their children, and many businesses in the area locked their doors temporarily as a precautionary measure. The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents about the safety of public spaces and has reignited conversations about gun violence and mental health resources in the community.
Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and to avoid spreading unverified information on social media. Police have set up a tip line for anyone with relevant information regarding the incident.
As investigators continue to piece together what transpired in the quiet halls of the Jackson County Public Library, the city of Seymour remains on edge, grappling with the aftermath of an unthinkable act in one of its most cherished institutions.
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