Tragic Shooting at Elizabeth City State University: One Dead and Six Injured After Yard Fest Celebration
Elizabeth City, North Carolina — A tragic shooting erupted early Sunday morning, April 27, 2025, at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), leaving one person dead and six others injured. The incident took place around 12:30 a.m. in the heart of the university campus, following Yard Fest, the final event of the university’s weeklong Viking Fest celebration. The shooting, which has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community, occurred in a typically vibrant and celebratory atmosphere, abruptly turning a night of joy into one of sorrow and chaos.
The Incident: Details Unfold
The tragic shooting unfolded shortly after the conclusion of Viking Fest, an annual event that draws students, faculty, and the local community together for a series of festivities. Yard Fest, one of the most anticipated components of Viking Fest, traditionally marks the end of the week-long celebration with music, food, and socializing. It was during the post-festivities period, when many students and visitors were still on campus, that gunfire erupted in a normally peaceful area of ECSU.
According to law enforcement and university officials, a group of individuals were gathered in the central area of campus when a dispute broke out, escalating into a violent confrontation. The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, reportedly fired multiple rounds into the crowd, hitting seven individuals before fleeing the scene. The shooting was over within moments, but the damage had already been done.
Victim Toll and Medical Response
The university’s emergency medical services were quick to respond, and the injured were immediately transported to nearby hospitals, some in critical condition. Despite their best efforts, one of the victims—identified later as a 21-year-old male ECSU student—succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. His identity has not been disclosed pending notification of family members. The remaining six victims, who are said to be students, are in stable to serious condition, with two requiring surgery for gunshot wounds. Their names are also being withheld pending further investigation.
Local authorities quickly cordoned off the campus and began their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While they have not confirmed the motive behind the violence, rumors of a personal dispute or gang-related activity have circulated. ECSU has vowed to cooperate fully with law enforcement to uncover the full details of the event.
Community and Campus Reaction
In the wake of the tragedy, the community of Elizabeth City is in mourning. ECSU, a historically Black university that prides itself on fostering a strong sense of unity and pride, has been rocked by the loss of one of its own. President Dr. Michelle R. Branch released a statement expressing profound sadness and offering condolences to the victims’ families. “We are heartbroken over this senseless act of violence that has shattered the peace of our campus and the lives of our students and their families,” she said. “Our thoughts are with the victims, and we will provide all necessary support during this difficult time.”
Students and staff alike have expressed their shock, with many describing the shooting as an unimaginable tragedy. “We came here to have a good time and celebrate together,” said Maria Edwards, a senior at ECSU. “I never thought something like this could happen here, not after all the planning and effort that went into Viking Fest. It’s hard to wrap my head around it.”
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, ECSU cancelled classes for the day and organized grief counseling services for students and faculty members. The university also held a vigil in the evening, where students and staff gathered to remember the victims and offer their support.
The Response of Law Enforcement
The Elizabeth City Police Department, along with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), has launched a full-scale investigation into the shooting. They have made it clear that no stone will be left unturned in their effort to bring those responsible to justice. Authorities have appealed to the public for any information related to the suspect or the events leading up to the shooting.
“We are actively working around the clock to determine the cause and identify the person responsible for this heinous act,” said Police Chief Carla Simmons. “We will ensure that justice is served, and that the victims and their families have the answers they deserve.”
As of this time, no arrests have been made, and authorities are reviewing video footage from security cameras on and around campus in an attempt to identify the shooter. Additionally, law enforcement has confirmed that they are exploring the possibility that the shooting may be gang-related, although this remains speculative at this point.
ECSU’s Commitment to Safety and Future Measures
In light of the violence, ECSU officials are reviewing their campus safety protocols and working closely with law enforcement to implement further security measures for future events. This is not the first time that concerns over campus safety have been raised in recent years, particularly as larger crowds have attended events like Viking Fest.
“The safety of our students, faculty, and visitors is our top priority,” said Dr. Branch in her statement. “We will work alongside law enforcement to ensure that future campus events are safe and that our community feels secure on our campus.”
One immediate measure under consideration is the installation of more security cameras throughout the campus and the possible implementation of a more robust security presence during major events. University leaders are also exploring ways to increase outreach to students, particularly in terms of conflict resolution and intervention strategies.
A Community in Grief and Unity
In the wake of the shooting, the residents of Elizabeth City, known for their strong sense of community, are left grappling with the senselessness of the violence. The tragedy has reverberated beyond the ECSU campus, affecting the entire city, which is home to approximately 18,000 residents.
Local businesses, many of which are owned by ECSU alumni, have offered their support to the university and the victims. Local faith leaders have called for unity and peace in their congregations, with several churches planning to hold memorial services for the victims. One such leader, Pastor James Dunlap of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, commented, “This act of violence has broken our hearts, but we will not let it break our community. We stand together in faith, love, and support for those affected by this tragedy.”
The tragedy has sparked a larger conversation within the community about violence prevention, gun control, and the safety of college campuses. Many parents, especially those of ECSU students, are calling for increased measures to ensure that students can attend university events without fear for their safety.
Looking Ahead: Justice and Healing
As the investigation continues and the community comes to terms with the tragic events of April 27, 2025, one thing remains clear: Elizabeth City is determined to heal. With the support of the local community, university officials, and law enforcement, ECSU will move forward, honoring the memory of the victim and ensuring that future tragedies like this are prevented.
As for the students, faculty, and residents of Elizabeth City, the road to recovery will not be easy. But, as many in the community have said, they will find strength in one another. “We will not let fear and hate define us,” said one student at the vigil. “We are Elizabeth City, and we will rise together.”
In the coming weeks, as the investigation continues and more details are revealed, the community of Elizabeth City will hold fast to the memories of the victims and work towards a future where such a tragedy is never repeated.
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