LOWELL, Massachusetts — Investigation Underway After Weapons Incident Reported on University of Massachusetts Lowell Campus Grounds

Authorities in Lowell, Massachusetts, launched a major investigation late Tuesday evening after a concerning weapons-related incident was reported on the University of Massachusetts Lowell campus. The situation has drawn widespread attention and heightened security responses after a video surfaced online, showing an unidentified individual walking through campus while holding what appeared to be a rifle. The incident has prompted swift action by law enforcement and triggered safety protocols designed to protect students, staff, and visitors on the premises.

Police confirmed that the suspect is described as an Asian male, approximately 5’5” in height, dressed in either a gray or white sweatshirt paired with black shorts, and visibly carrying a long weapon consistent with a rifle. According to witness reports, the individual was last seen near the Riverview Suites residence hall, one of the student housing facilities on the UML campus. This location is typically busy with residents and visitors, raising serious concerns about potential risks to safety.

Shortly after the sighting was reported, an emergency alert was immediately issued to students, faculty, and staff. The message urged recipients to take shelter, avoid open areas, and remain cautious until further notice. Early communication even referenced an “active shooter” situation, intensifying the atmosphere of alarm across the university and surrounding Lowell community. Officials have since clarified that the term was used out of caution and that no confirmed gunfire has been reported at this time.

The Lowell Police Department, in coordination with the university’s campus police, responded to the incident with a large presence of officers. They quickly began sweeping the area, deploying resources to search for the suspect and ensure that students and staff remained safe. Specialized units were called in to provide tactical support, and perimeter security was tightened across multiple sections of the campus. This visible police activity was aimed at both locating the suspect and reassuring the community.

Students reported receiving multiple updates on their phones through the campus alert system. Many described the tense atmosphere inside residence halls and classrooms, where doors were locked and blinds drawn as they sheltered in place. Some students turned to social media to share their experiences, spreading both verified and unverified information, which contributed to confusion while highlighting the urgency of official communications.

University officials emphasized their priority was to safeguard all individuals on or near the property. They urged calm, patience, and adherence to security instructions as the investigation unfolded. The administration reiterated that counseling and support services would be made available to anyone experiencing anxiety due to the ongoing situation. These measures reflect the university’s commitment to addressing both immediate safety needs and the emotional well-being of its community members.

Parents and families of students also began reaching out in large numbers, seeking updates and reassurance about the safety of their loved ones. Many expressed relief that the alert system functioned effectively, while still voicing concern about the potential threat posed by the armed individual. Officials have reminded families to rely only on verified updates from law enforcement and the university, discouraging reliance on rumors circulating online.

The broader Lowell community has been impacted as well, as residents near the campus were advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary movement. Local businesses in close proximity temporarily closed their doors as a precautionary measure. The city’s emergency management officials worked alongside police to ensure that necessary resources were on standby should the situation escalate further.

As of the latest update, the suspect has not yet been apprehended, and the investigation remains active. Law enforcement continues to search with urgency, reviewing security camera footage, monitoring potential escape routes, and gathering witness statements. Officials have promised full transparency with the public and indicated that additional information will be released as soon as it becomes available.

This developing situation underscores the ongoing need for vigilance in public spaces, especially within academic institutions where large numbers of students and staff gather daily. Authorities in Lowell have reassured the community that every effort is being made to resolve the matter swiftly and safely. Until further notice, shelter-in-place advisories remain in effect, and updates will be provided directly by the university and local law enforcement.