Active Weapons Incident at UMass Lowell — Immediate Action Recommended
Situation Overview
The University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is currently under a shelter-in-place order due to reports of a person potentially carrying a firearm on South Campus, near the Riverview Suites. Authorities are actively searching for the individual. No confirmed shots fired or injuries have been reported so far.
What We Know
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Nature of the incident: A suspected armed individual was seen walking near the Riverview Suites residence hall. Online video evidence appears to show someone carrying a weapon.
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Description of the suspect: A 5’5″ Asian male in a white or gray sweatshirt and black shorts, reportedly carrying a long weapon.
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Alerts issued: The university and local authorities have sent warnings urging the community to avoid the area, stay inside, and follow safety procedures (“run, hide, fight”).
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Response underway: UMass Lowell Police, Lowell Police Department, and Massachusetts State Police are on the scene, conducting investigations and searching the vicinity.
What You Should Do Now
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Check Immediately with Loved Ones
If you have children, family members, or friends at UMass Lowell, reach out to confirm their safety. Ask them to stay sheltered in place unless directed otherwise. -
Stay Informed through Official Channels
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Monitor updates from UMass Lowell’s official communications (email, app, website).
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Follow Lowell Police Department and Massachusetts State Police alerts on social media platforms like X.
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Local media outlets may offer real-time updates.
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Encourage Safe Behavior
Advise anyone on campus to:-
Stay in secure locations—lock doors and stay quiet.
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Wait for an official all-clear before moving or responding.
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Know When to Escalate
If safe and able, encourage those inside sheltering locations to call 911 only if they have critical information (e.g., suspect’s location, movement, or other urgent developments).
Summary of Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Shelter-in-place due to suspected armed individual on campus |
| Location | Riverview Suites area, South Campus, UMass Lowell |
| Suspect Description | 5’5″ Asian male in white/gray sweatshirt and black shorts, armed |
| Current Status | Active search by multiple law enforcement agencies |
| Action for Families | Confirm safety of loved ones; advise sheltering; monitor official updates |
| Immediate Contact Suggestion | Call loved ones; reach out to campus officials/emergency services if needed |
Final Thoughts
This is a rapidly evolving and high-risk situation. The most important priorities are:
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Staying safe: Follow shelter-in-place guidelines rigorously.
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Staying informed: Rely on verified sources for updates.
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Staying connected: Ensure your family on campus knows you’re thinking of them and that they are safe.