ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, was placed on full lockdown Thursday morning after a former midshipman, previously dismissed from the Academy, allegedly returned to campus armed with a weapon, multiple sources confirmed.
Gunfire and False Pretenses in Bancroft Hall
Gunfire was reported inside Bancroft Hall, the sprawling and historic dormitory that houses the Brigade of Midshipmen. Several witnesses described a tense and frightening atmosphere as the suspect moved through the building.
According to one official familiar with the incident, the individual was seen “knocking on doors pretending to be a military policeman” before the sounds of gunfire were heard. Authorities have not confirmed whether anyone was struck by the gunfire or injured.
Naval Authorities Confirm Lockdown
Lieutenant Naweed Lemar, Public Affairs Officer for Naval Support Activity Annapolis (NSAA), released a statement acknowledging the threat and confirming the Academy lockdown:
“Naval Support Activity Annapolis, in coordination with local law enforcement, is currently responding to reports of threats made to the Naval Academy. The base is on lockdown out of an abundance of caution. This is a developing situation and we will provide updates as they become available.”
Pentagon and Local Response
A Defense Department official separately confirmed awareness of the situation, acknowledging the lockdown but declining to provide further details.
Local police, military security forces, and federal agencies quickly converged on the Annapolis campus. Streets around the Naval Academy were closed to traffic, and nearby residents were urged to avoid the area.
High Security at a National Institution
Founded in 1845, the Naval Academy is home to more than 4,000 midshipmen and serves as one of the nation’s most elite military training institutions. Bancroft Hall, where the gunfire was reported, is the largest dormitory in the country and central to Academy life.
Thursday’s events sent shockwaves through the community, both on campus and across Annapolis, where security at the Academy is normally tight.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Thursday afternoon, officials had not released the identity of the suspect, nor clarified whether the individual had been taken into custody. Authorities have also not confirmed if there were any injuries.
Law enforcement agencies remain on scene, and investigators are continuing to secure the area. Officials are urging the public to avoid speculation until more information is verified.
“This is a developing situation,” one Defense Department source emphasized. “The safety of the midshipmen and staff is our top priority.”
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