Galloway Township, N.J. – Stockton University was placed on lockdown Thursday afternoon after reports of a shooting near campus prompted an immediate police response and a shelter-in-place order for students and staff.
According to initial accounts from students and parents, the incident began with an altercation near a hospital adjacent to the university. Witnesses say that gunfire erupted in the area of Jimmie Leeds Road and Vera King Farris Drive, close to the school’s main entrance.
Reports of Shooting Near Campus
Unverified social media messages from parents and students suggested that a female victim was struck during the shooting. Dispatch logs circulating online indicated that a woman suffered a gunshot wound to the face and was being treated by emergency medical personnel.
Several parents reported receiving text messages from their children who were sheltering in classrooms, including in the arts building. One student said their teacher locked the classroom doors as the lockdown went into effect.
Uncertainty and Communication Concerns
The sudden shelter-in-place order led to confusion, with many parents expressing frustration that they had not received official alerts. Some believed the shooting took place off-campus, possibly as part of a drive-by near the school, while others feared an active shooter had entered university grounds.
One parent shared that their child was told a suspect fled toward campus after the initial shooting, raising further alarm until police secured the area.
University and Police Response
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact sequence of events or whether the shooting was directly related to Stockton University. Police remained on scene for several hours, canvassing the area around the university entrance and hospital.
The university’s Department of Public Safety advised students and staff to remain indoors while the investigation unfolded. By mid-afternoon, law enforcement had not announced any arrests or suspect details.
Community Reaction
Parents and community members expressed both fear and relief online. Many were thankful their children were safe but urged the university to improve communication during emergencies. Others prayed for the reported victim, whose condition remains unknown.
Ongoing Investigation
At this time, no official statement has been released by Stockton University or local law enforcement confirming the number of victims or the motive behind the shooting.
Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation develops.
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