Photo: AFP
Several HBCUs have gone into lockdown due to "terroristic threats" targeting the campuses, per USA Today.
As of Thursday (September 11) morning, Alabama State University, Hampton University, Virginia State University, Bethune-Cookman University, and Southern University were on lockdown after unspecified threats were made against the HBCUs.
Virginia State issued an “urgent alert” at around 8:30 a.m. ET, noting that the campus was closed and advising students, faculty, and staff to check their email. A school representative said the closure was "due to a potential threat." The rep warned that students who are on campus should remain indoors.
In a statement, Alabama State said it had shut down campus operations out of an abundance of caution after receiving "terrorist threats."
"We are working in close coordination with the appropriate law enforcement agencies to assess the situation and to ensure the safety and security of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader ASU community," the statement read.
Hampton University also released a statement, saying classes were canceled for Thursday and Friday (September 12) due to a "potential threat."
"Hampton University has received notice of a potential threat and has ceased all non-essential activity, effective immediately," the school said.
“The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors remain our highest priority,” officials added.
Bethune-Cookman officials announced that all classes were canceled and urged students to shelter in place in their dorm rooms.
“All faculty and staff should head home, and those not on campus should plan to work remotely,” the Florida school said in a statement. “Safety is our first priority, and we will continue to provide updates.”
Baton Rouge's Southern University said the school was working with law enforcement agencies amid potential threats.
Spellman College also went into lockdown, though officials noted the campus has not faced threats.
“At this time, no threats have been directed toward Spelman’s campus. However, we have increased security presence across campus and at our two main entrances,” officials said. “Your safety remains our top priority. Please stay tuned for updates.”
The threats come one day after conservative figure Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. The shooter remains at large. Two students were also injured in a separate shooting on Wednesday at Evergreen High School in Colorado, where a teen gunman also died from self-inflicted injuries.
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