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Police Respond to Reported Shooting on East Main Street in Radford, VA; Campus Alert Urges Students to Shelter in Place RADFORD, VA — An intense police response was launched late Friday night following reports of a shooting on the 1400 block of East Main Street, a bustling area that sits close to the heart of Radford University’s main campus. The incident sparked immediate concern and prompted an urgent campus-wide alert urging students and staff to secure in place as law enforcement flooded the area. The first alert was issued by Radford University’s emergency notification system shortly after the initial reports emerged. “Radford Alert! Main Campus. URGENT: Shelter in place. Police responding to reported shooting,” the message read. The alert sent shockwaves across the student body, many of whom were either wrapping up their night out or returning from off-campus activities when the situation unfolded. As students and faculty scrambled to lock doors and stay indoors, Radford City Police, supported by university law enforcement, responded rapidly to the scene. Officers worked to secure the area, interview witnesses, and gather intelligence. While initial details were scarce, the heavy police presence and the sudden nature of the alert created an atmosphere of high tension on and around campus. Roughly an hour later, an updated alert was issued by the university, this time providing a description of the individuals believed to be involved in the incident. “Radford Alert! Main Campus. Urgent: Per City PD, suspect descriptions: 2 Black males—1 with dreads, white shirt with yellow & red; 1 wearing a green long-sleeved shirt.” No further context was given at that time regarding their direction of travel or whether they remained in the vicinity. As of now, it remains unclear if anyone was injured in the incident or whether shots were confirmed to have been fired. Police have not yet released an official statement with additional details, and the suspects have not been apprehended. The campus remained under high alert for several hours, with students being urged to remain inside, away from windows, and to await further instructions. Many took to social media to share their experiences, express concerns, and check on friends. Some posted videos of police vehicles lining East Main Street, lights flashing, as officers moved cautiously through the area. Parents and community members also voiced concern, seeking clarity and reassurance about the safety of their loved ones. University officials acknowledged the fear caused by the alerts and stressed that student safety was their top priority. Radford University later confirmed that while the campus was not believed to be under direct threat, the lockdown was a necessary precaution given the proximity of the incident to student housing and other university facilities. City and campus police are continuing their investigation, asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or seen the described suspects to come forward with information. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is also being reviewed in hopes of identifying and locating those involved. This incident adds to a growing national concern regarding campus safety and the need for fast, coordinated emergency responses. The university’s timely alert system was credited by many students for helping them remain calm and take proper precautions in a rapidly evolving situation. As of Saturday morning, no further alerts have been issued, but authorities have reassured the public that they are doing everything possible to track down those responsible. Anyone with tips is encouraged to contact Radford City Police or use the anonymous campus safety tip line. More details will be provided as the investigation develops. Students and residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in the area.

Admin / April 18, 2025

Police Respond to Reported Shooting on East Main Street in Radford, VA; Campus Alert Urges Students to Shelter in Place