Suspect Taken Into Custody After Virginia State University Shooting
A 19-year-old Virginia man has been arrested in connection with a shooting near Virginia State University that injured five people early Saturday morning.
Authorities identified the suspect as Camron Harris of Henrico, Virginia. Police said Harris is not a student at the university. He was reportedly discovered hiding inside a closet at Seward Hall, a campus residence hall, more than 12 hours after the shooting.
The shooting happened at approximately 1:30 a.m. near the Quad Annexes, a residential area on the Virginia State University campus. Five people between the ages of 17 and 23 were injured.
One of the victims, a 21-year-old man who is not enrolled at the university, remained in critical condition. A 20-year-old Virginia State student suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening and was later released from the hospital. The other victims were also expected to recover.
Eight Felony Warrants Issued Against Harris
Chesterfield County police have obtained eight felony warrants against Harris. The charges include four counts of malicious wounding and four counts involving the use of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Harris is being held without bond as investigators continue to examine what led to the shooting. Authorities have not announced a possible motive, and additional charges could be filed as the investigation develops.
Police are also looking into whether other people fired weapons during the incident. Investigators are working to determine whether those individuals were involved in the attack or fired in self-defense.
The initial response involved a significant law-enforcement presence around the Virginia State University campus. The university was temporarily placed under lockdown while officers searched for suspects.
Campus Lockdown Lifted as Investigation Continues
The lockdown was later lifted after authorities determined there was no continuing threat to the university community. Police presence on campus remained increased as investigators continued their work.
The shooting occurred shortly before the start of the fall academic term and followed activities for incoming students. Virginia State University, a historically Black university located near Richmond, has approximately 5,700 students.
The investigation is being led by Chesterfield County Police with assistance from Virginia State University Police and other law-enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Authorities have not yet explained how Harris, who is not a Virginia State student, entered the residence hall where he was found. That question, along with the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the possible involvement of additional people, remains part of the ongoing investigation.
