Police identified the suspect as Camron Harris, 19, of Henrico, Virginia, following an extensive campus search. Authorities reportedly found Harris hiding inside a dormitory closet at Virginia State University. Chesterfield County police confirmed that Harris does not attend the university as a student. Meanwhile, investigators obtained eight felony warrants connected with the shooting investigation.
The warrants reportedly include allegations involving malicious wounding and firearm use during felony activity. However, authorities have not publicly established a motive or explained what led to the shooting. Investigators also have not confirmed whether additional suspects remain at large or face potential charges. Consequently, police continue examining evidence while working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The shooting occurred around 1:28 a.m. near student housing on the Virginia State University campus. Officers responding to the area found five people suffering from gunshot wounds outside residence halls. Emergency crews transported all five victims to nearby hospitals for immediate medical treatment. One victim remained in critical condition, while the other four suffered injuries officials described as non-life-threatening.
The victims range from 17 to 23 years old, according to authorities investigating the incident. One 20-year-old victim attends Virginia State University and later left the hospital after treatment. The remaining four victims do not attend the university, officials said during their investigation. Authorities have not released the victims’ names while the investigation continues.
Initially, university officials placed the campus under lockdown following reports of multiple suspects. However, authorities later lifted the lockdown after determining there was no immediate threat. Nevertheless, university police planned to maintain a stronger law enforcement presence across campus. Officials also encouraged students to monitor university communications for additional safety instructions and support resources.
Virginia State University, a historically Black college and university, sits in Ettrick, roughly 25 miles south of Richmond. The incident occurred as returning students moved into residence halls ahead of the fall semester. Classes were scheduled to begin Monday, making the shooting particularly significant for the campus community.
The VSU shooting investigation involves several law enforcement agencies working together to identify what happened. Chesterfield County Police Department leads the investigation with assistance from university police and federal authorities. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Hanover County Sheriff’s Office also joined investigators.
University officials have asked anyone with relevant information to contact investigators directly. Authorities also provided Crime Solvers as another option for people who may have information. Additionally, officials encouraged witnesses to share details that could help investigators establish the events leading to the gunfire.
Virginia officials also responded publicly after news of the shooting spread across the state. Gov. Abigail Spanberger expressed support for the injured victims and thanked responding officers. State Delegate Rozia A. Henson Jr., a Virginia State University alumnus, also offered condolences. Both emphasized support for victims, families, students and the wider university community.
For now, investigators continue reviewing evidence and pursuing leads connected with the VSU shooting. Authorities have not disclosed additional suspects, a possible motive, or further details about the warrants. The investigation remains ongoing as police work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the early-morning gunfire.
