A significant police presence was observed at the University of Massachusetts in Boston following reports of gunshots heard on campus.
Witnesses reported seeing students and staff fleeing in fear upon hearing gunshots at the Dorchester campus, as confirmed by the Boston Police Department. The university, also known as UMass, issued alerts to students regarding an ongoing ‘public safety threat.’
The incident occurred near a residence hall in the East Building of the university after gunfire was noted around 3:45 pm local time near Morrissey Boulevard. SWAT teams quickly responded to the scene, urging people to steer clear of the area.
An emergency alert from UMB announced that the police had cleared the incident on campus, reassuring the community that there was no prevailing threat.
Following the tragic shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, several universities nationwide have been on high alert. In response to “terroristic threats,” seven universities, including those in Virginia, Alabama, Louisiana, New Jersey, Florida, and Georgia, were placed on lockdown.
Another UMB emergency alert canceled classes and activities for the evening, indicating that a police investigation was ongoing. Law enforcement agencies were collaborating with campus partners to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff.
Despite a significant response from first responders to reports of a shooting at the University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston police clarified that there was no confirmation of gunfire or armed individuals on campus.
Initial reports suggested an incident at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, later indicating a ‘public safety threat’ at a residence hall. Both Boston police and campus authorities confirmed an ongoing investigation but had limited details to disclose at that time.
UMass Boston issued alerts to students warning of the ‘public safety threat’ near or within a residence hall at the East Building of the Dorchester campus. SWAT teams swiftly arrived at the dormitory, urging people to avoid the vicinity where gunshots were reported around 3:45 pm near Morrissey Boulevard.