At least three Michigan State University students are dead following a mass shooting on Monday Night. So far, five have been reported injured and are in critical condition according to the university. MSU has identified the gunman as 43-year-old Anthony Dwayne McRae.
On Twitter, MSU released the name of the gunman. They said “the person who committed these homicides is 43-year-old Anthony Dwayne McRae. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.”
MSU has confirmed that McRae was not affiliated with the University and therefore the motives for the shooting are still very much unknown.
It is believed that the gunman had a note in his backpack. Allegedly the note detailed other active shooting situations.
Following the incident, two of the students killed have been named. They have been identified as Brian Fraser and Alexandria Verner. Apart from this information, the remaining names of those injured and killed are yet to be released.
Those injured are in Sparrow Hospital, Michigan, receiving urgent care.
Terrified students hid in their dorm rooms. The campus was placed on a full lockdown as police tried to search for the gunman.
What happened?
Michigan police first received calls just after 20:00 pm Monday night (the 13th of February) reporting a shooting at Berkey Hall.
Police then received reports of shootings at the Union building too.
The two buildings are open to the general public during business hours.
MSU Police updated the public primarily via their Twitter. Initially, they reported,
“There have been shots fired”. Under 40 minutes later they said, “the suspect is believed to be on foot right now.”
After several more concise and informative tweets, they confirmed that “the suspect has been located off campus. It appears he has died from self-inflicted gunshot wounds. There is no longer a threat to campus and the shelter-in-place has been lifted.”
As a result of their communication, MSU police have been praised for their quick responses and efficient updates.
Classes will resume at MSU on Monday the 20th of February. Until then everything online and in person has been canceled.
On a FAQ page, MSU says to parents,
“If your student believes going home for the rest of the week is the best thing for them, they are encouraged to do so.” Following this, they go on to say that if students decide to stay on campus “we are here to help and support them.”
Within the document, MSU lists a range of counseling and psychiatric services that are available 24/7 for those that need them.
According to ABC News, this is the “67th mass shooting in the country this year.” Unfortunately for America, this is becoming a regular incident. Nevertheless, each incident is just as devastating.
