A night of celebration turned into tragedy at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania on Saturday, as seven people were shot during the school’s homecoming festivities — one fatally. The shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m. outside the university’s International Cultural Center, where students and alumni had gathered following the football game.
Authorities say the victims were caught in a sudden and chaotic eruption of gunfire. One of the victims died, while six others sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, and one individual found in possession of a firearm was detained. However, officials believe there may have been additional shooters involved.
Chester County District Attorney Chris de Barrena-Sarobe addressed the media, emphasizing that while the investigation is still unfolding, officials do not believe the shooting was a planned attack meant to inflict mass casualties. The incident is currently being treated as isolated violence that escalated during the large gathering.
The university was briefly placed on lockdown as police secured the scene and searched for evidence. Students were later allowed to return to their dorms, though increased police presence remains around campus. University officials have announced that counseling and mental health resources are being made available to all affected students and staff.
Witnesses described the scene as terrifying, with people running for safety as shots rang out. Social media posts from attendees showed crowds scattering, unsure of where the gunfire was coming from. Many expressed shock and heartbreak that what should have been a proud and joyful homecoming ended in violence.
Police are urging anyone with information, videos, or firsthand accounts to come forward as they work to determine exactly what happened and who is responsible.
