An alleged video captured a glimpse of a possible active shooter on the campus of the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass) on Wednesday, September 3 (US time). The clip, as seen on the ‘@rawalerts’ X profile, claimed that the suspected individual was an “Asian male, approximately 5’5″ tall, wearing a gray or white sweatshirt and black shorts.” The allegedly armed suspect was seen carrying a long gun behind Riverview Suites Residence Hall. 

According to Fox News, a student saw the development first-hand and called 911. City and state police, along with FBI Boston, are now looking into the video circulating on social media. The Lowell Police Department has since validated the visuals captured online.

Lockdown alert for UMass Lowell campus

With reports about a potential active shooter‘s presence at UMass Lowell prompting concerns, a campus-wide hourslong lockdown was implemented. However, more recent updates from the scene indicated that the shelter in place and lockdown have already been lifted.

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An alert shared with the campus community further stated that authorities’ search and investigation had led them to believe “the suspect is no longer in the vicinity.” Nonetheless, “a large police presence is maintained on campus, and officers will be stationed at all residence halls overnight,” as per NBC Boston’s report.

Alleged Asian male shooter in Massachusetts – what we know

As per an alert on the public university’s website, “There was no report of a shooting.” Despite the viral video sending shockwaves across Lowell, authorities eventually revealed that no evidence of any gunshots being fired was discovered on the scene.

The incident happened on what was the first day of class at the university. In the wake of the emerging potential threat, all classes and event at UMass Lowell stood cancelled on Wednesday.

UMass Lowell Police Chief Ron Dickerson issued a statement, saying, “To be clear: At no time was this an active shooter incident, and we’ve received no reports of a shooting or of any injuries. We continue to investigate this incident and are actively working to locate this individual.”

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Although online claims suggest that the person of interest was possibly Asian, no confirmation on the matter came from the authorities. As of now, the suspect has merely been described as a male. Officials have yet to formally determine his identity and name him.

This is an ongoing investigation.