BREAKING: Authorities Respond to Separate Shooting Incidents at Alcorn State University and Near Jackson State Stadium; Child Injured, Campuses on Alert
MISSISSIPPI — Law enforcement officials across Mississippi are responding to two developing shooting incidents on Saturday evening — one occurring on the campus of Alcorn State University and the other near the Jackson State University (JSU) stadium — prompting emergency alerts, heightened security protocols, and a large-scale law enforcement response.
Shooting Reported on Alcorn State University Campus
Alcorn State University, located in Lorman, Mississippi, issued an emergency alert just after sundown confirming that a shooting had taken place on campus. In the alert, university officials urged all students, faculty, and staff to immediately shelter in place and remain in secure locations until an official all-clear is given.
“A shooting has been reported on campus. If you are on campus, seek shelter immediately. Do not leave your secure location until given an all-clear by Campus Police,” the university’s message stated.
Multiple law enforcement agencies, including Alcorn State Campus Police, local sheriff’s deputies, and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, have responded to the scene and are actively investigating. As of this report, no information has been released regarding victims, suspects, or a motive.
Officials have closed off sections of the campus to allow for a full forensic sweep and to maintain safety while investigators work to piece together the circumstances that led to the incident. The campus remains on lockdown, and university officials have asked family members of students to refrain from attempting to come to campus until further notice.
Child Injured in Separate Shooting Near Jackson State University Stadium
Just hours after the Alcorn incident, authorities in Jackson responded to another shooting near the JSU stadium, specifically in the tailgate area along West Street, where large crowds had gathered for university-related events.
Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones confirmed that a child was struck by gunfire during the shooting and was rushed to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) by officers from the Jackson Police Department (JPD) in a patrol vehicle.
“There’s been a shooting near the tailgate section of the JSU stadium on West St. A child has been injured and transported to UMMC by JPD officers in a patrol vehicle,” Sheriff Jones said in a statement released on social media.
The condition of the child has not yet been disclosed. Authorities have not confirmed whether the child was targeted or caught in the crossfire.
Large-Scale Law Enforcement Presence and Investigation Underway
Multiple agencies, including Jackson Police, Capitol Police, and the Mississippi Highway Patrol, are involved in the investigation of the JSU incident. Officials have cordoned off the tailgate area and surrounding streets, asking all attendees to immediately vacate the premises to allow law enforcement to secure the crime scene and collect evidence.
There has been no confirmation of any suspects in either shooting, and no arrests have been made at this time. Authorities have not stated whether there is a possible connection between the two shootings, though both occurred on or near university campuses during a weekend filled with homecoming events, large student gatherings, and football-related festivities.
Law enforcement officials are urging the public to avoid the affected areas and are asking anyone with information, photos, or video related to either incident to contact authorities immediately.
Community Shaken Amid Heightened Security and Canceled Events
As news of the shootings spread across social media and campus communication platforms, students, families, and community members expressed growing concerns over safety during major campus events.
JSU officials have not confirmed whether events scheduled for the remainder of the weekend — including the football game and homecoming celebrations — will be postponed, canceled, or moved, though a full update is expected by Sunday morning.
Alcorn State University similarly has not released a timeline for lifting its campus lockdown or resuming normal operations.
Parents and loved ones are advised to check university websites and official social media channels for the most up-to-date information.
State and Federal Assistance May Be Requested
In response to the rapid succession of violent incidents on educational grounds, state officials are reportedly in contact with federal partners, including the FBI and U.S. Department of Education, to assess whether broader support or resources may be needed for both investigations and campus safety assessments.
What We Know So Far
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A shooting occurred at Alcorn State University Saturday evening; campus remains on lockdown. No confirmed injuries or suspects yet.
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A separate shooting took place near Jackson State University’s stadium, where large crowds had gathered for tailgating.
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A child was struck by gunfire and transported to UMMC; their condition is currently unknown.
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No suspects or motives have been identified in either incident.
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Large-scale law enforcement responses are active at both sites.
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The public is asked to avoid the areas and report any relevant information to authorities.
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