NORMAL, Ill. (WLS) -- A shooting incident on Sunday evening near the Bone Student Center at Illinois State University has left one person injured and prompted a swift response from campus authorities. The university issued a safety alert following reports of shots fired in the vicinity of the student center, located on West Locust Street in Normal, Illinois.
The shooting occurred around 7:55 p.m., with university officials confirming that one individual was shot and subsequently transported to a local hospital. As of the latest updates, the condition and identity of the victim have not been disclosed.
In a text alert sent out by the university's police department, students and staff were advised to stay away from North University and West Locust streets, as well as the Bone Center. The university's alert warned, "A report of shots fired at Bone Student Center. If you are near this area, take precautions." This warning reflects the seriousness of the incident and the ongoing police presence in the area.
Authorities have described the suspect as a slender man, approximately 5-foot-10, with an afro, and dressed in all black. He was last seen fleeing south from the intersection of University and College streets. This description was shared in an effort to solicit information from the public as police continue their investigation.
Despite the shooting, university officials confirmed that classes would proceed as scheduled on Monday. However, the Bone Student Center remains closed while police work to clear the area and gather more information about the incident.
As of 9:20 p.m., there was no shelter-in-place order issued for the campus, indicating that authorities did not consider the threat to be ongoing. Nevertheless, the university community has been urged to remain vigilant and report any eyewitness accounts to campus police via the provided email address.
The shooting has raised concerns among students and staff, who are now grappling with the implications of violence in their campus environment. The university has promised to keep the community updated as more details emerge.
In light of these events, the Illinois State University administration is expected to review safety protocols and campus security measures to ensure the well-being of its students and staff. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of unexpected violence.
This is a developing story, and updates will continue to be provided as more information becomes available from university officials and law enforcement agencies.
