In a concerning series of events, Jackson State University (JSU) in Mississippi was forced to issue two shelter-in-place orders on Monday due to reports of an armed man on campus. The JSU Department of Public Safety responded promptly to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff.

The first incident occurred in the morning when an alert was issued about a man armed with an assault rifle near the College of Liberal Arts. Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade confirmed that multiple phone calls were received reporting the armed individual. Concerned about the rise of active shooter situations across the country, authorities responded with full force, even receiving a picture of the suspect.

As a precautionary measure, students, faculty, and staff were advised to shelter in place until further notice. A JSU student shared her experience, recounting how her instructor locked the classroom door and covered the windows with paper in response to the alert.

However, later in the day, another incident unfolded as additional reports of a trespassing male individual were received. These reports prompted JSU Department of Public Safety to issue a second shelter-in-place order at approximately 12:46 p.m. Campus police immediately initiated a sweep in response to the new report, ensuring that the campus remained secure.

Fortunately, the JSU Department of Public Safety was able to issue an all-clear after the trespasser was spotted leaving the JSU property. The Jackson Police Department is currently collaborating with JSU DPS to identify the individual, while urging anyone with information about his identity and whereabouts to come forward.

The safety and security of the Jackson State University community are of utmost importance. While incidents such as these heighten concerns, swift actions taken by campus police and collaboration with the local authorities provide a sense of assurance.

Authorities encourage anyone with information relating to the incidents or the identity of the armed man to contact Jackson Police at 601-960-1234 or campus police at 601-979-2580.

As investigations continue, students, faculty, and staff at Jackson State University remain vigilant, with an understanding that the university and local law enforcement are actively working to ensure their safety.