BREAKING: One Injured, Suspect at Large After Shooting Reported at Illinois State University
NORMAL, Ill. — A frightening situation unfolded late Sunday at Illinois State University, where shots were reportedly fired, leaving one person injured and prompting an urgent manhunt for the suspect who remains at large, university and law enforcement officials confirmed.
The incident was first reported around 8:15 p.m. near a campus residential area. According to initial information provided by ISU officials and Normal Police, campus security was immediately alerted to the sounds of gunfire, triggering an emergency response across the university grounds.
Immediate Response and Campus Alert
Students and staff received urgent notifications through the university’s emergency alert system, advising them to shelter in place while law enforcement teams secured the scene. Witnesses reported a heavy police presence, including patrol units, K-9 teams, and tactical response officers sweeping the area.
“It was terrifying,” said sophomore student Rachel Owens. “We got the alert to shelter in place, and you could hear sirens everywhere. Everyone was messaging each other to make sure we were safe.”
Paramedics responded swiftly to the scene and transported one injured individual to a nearby hospital. As of late Sunday night, the victim’s condition has not been publicly released, but authorities have confirmed that the injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Suspect on the Run
Authorities have not yet released a full description of the suspect but confirmed that the individual fled the area before police arrived. A manhunt is underway, with officers canvassing the surrounding neighborhoods, campus, and nearby streets.
Normal Police, working closely with university police and Illinois State Troopers, have urged anyone with information to come forward and warned the public to remain vigilant.
“We are actively investigating and following multiple leads,” said Normal Police Chief Rick Bleichner. “Our top priority right now is ensuring the safety of the ISU community and apprehending the suspect as quickly as possible.”
Investigation Ongoing
Details about what led to the shooting are still emerging. Investigators are interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from the area to piece together the events leading up to the gunfire.
Sources familiar with the investigation told local media that the incident may have stemmed from a personal dispute, although officials have not yet confirmed a motive.
University President Terri Goss Kinzy issued a statement late Sunday, expressing concern and support for those affected.
“Our thoughts are with the individual who was injured, and we are grateful to our police and emergency responders for their swift actions tonight,” Kinzy said. “We will continue to provide updates and support to our students and staff.”
What’s Next
Classes at Illinois State University are expected to continue as scheduled on Monday, although officials said there will be an increased police presence across campus to reassure students and staff. Counseling services have been made available for anyone in need of emotional support.
University officials emphasized the importance of staying connected to the campus alert system for real-time updates and following any safety instructions issued by law enforcement.
This is a developing story. More information will be provided as updates become available.