Worcester State University was rocked by a shooting early Saturday morning, resulting in the tragic death of one person and the injury of another. The incident led to the closure of the university campus, with all events being canceled until further notice.

According to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early Jr., the shooting took place at approximately 2:30 a.m. in a parking lot where a fight was reported. When authorities arrived at the scene, they discovered two individuals had been shot. Tragically, one of the victims succumbed to their injuries, while the other underwent surgery at a local hospital and is expected to survive.

Early emphasized that neither of the victims were Worcester State University students, nor were the assailants. Despite the incident occurring on campus, it was clarified that the involved parties had no affiliation with the university.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the shooting was not a random act of violence, and the individuals involved were believed to be acquainted with each other. Interim Worcester Police Chief Paul Saucier confirmed that one person was arrested near the scene, and a firearm was recovered. The individual has been charged with trespassing and possession of a firearm.

State police have identified individuals of interest captured on video and are currently seeking to interview them regarding the incident. Authorities revealed that the double shooting occurred in the vicinity of a parking garage.

In response to the shooting, Worcester State University promptly issued a shelter-in-place order for all buildings on campus, advising individuals to remain indoors and away from windows or openings. Campus officials stressed that there was no immediate threat to the campus, although the precise nature of the incident was not explicitly disclosed. The shelter-in-place order was lifted shortly before 9:30 a.m., with Worcester State University Police Chief Jason Kapurch assuring the community that the campus is now deemed safe.

As a precautionary measure, the Wasylean parking lot, which is located near Wasylean Hall and the university library, will remain closed until further notice. Authorities have urged anyone with pertinent information, video footage, or images of the parking lot to come forward and share them with the Worcester State University staff and police department.

In light of the incident, Worcester State University announced that the campus would be closed on Saturday and that all university events, both on and off campus, have been canceled indefinitely. This unfortunate event comes at a time when the university was scheduled to host its homecoming and family weekend.

Acting university president Lois Wims assured students that residence hall services and counseling are available to them in Sheehan Hall. Additionally, students can access online support through ResilientU. Family and friends can pick up students at the school's wellness center.

The investigation into the shooting is being conducted jointly by state police assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney's Office, multiple Massachusetts State Police units, the Worcester Police Department, and the Worcester State University Police Department.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, authorities are urging anyone with further information or relevant photos and videos in the areas surrounding Wasylean Hall and Sheehan Hall to reach out to the Worcester Police Department or the state police.

This senseless act of violence has deeply impacted the Worcester State University community, and they mourn the loss of life while rallying together to support those affected by this tragedy.