Multiple victims were injured in the Lincoln University shooting 2025 during homecoming weekend in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Authorities confirm an active investigation with no suspects in custody as Governor Josh Shapiro pledges support.
Lincoln University Shooting 2025: Multiple People Shot During Pennsylvania Homecoming Weekend

The Lincoln University shooting 2025 has left the Pennsylvania community in shock after multiple people were shot during the school’s homecoming celebrations on Saturday night. The incident occurred at Lincoln University, a historically Black college (HBCU) located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, about 45 miles southwest of Philadelphia.
Authorities have confirmed that multiple victims were taken to nearby hospitals, and an active investigation is currently underway.
What Happened at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania?
According to reports from the Chester County District Attorney’s Office, the Lincoln University shooting 2025 took place late Saturday night, October 25, 2025, when a gunman opened fire on the campus during homecoming festivities.
The DA’s office confirmed in a statement to Fox News Digital that there were “multiple victims,” though the exact number of injuries or fatalities has not yet been confirmed.
Law enforcement, including the Oxford Borough Police Department, immediately responded to the scene. Early reports suggest that at least seven individuals were shot and transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Officials urged the public to avoid the area as the active shooter investigation continues.
Timeline of the Lincoln University Shooting 2025
| Date & Time | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| October 25, 2025 – 10:30 PM | Shooting reported | Gunfire erupted during Lincoln University’s homecoming celebration |
| October 25, 2025 – 11:00 PM | Law enforcement responds | Police and campus security arrive at the scene |
| October 26, 2025 – 12:00 AM | Victims transported | At least seven people taken to nearby hospitals |
| October 26, 2025 – 1:30 AM | Investigation launched | Chester County DA confirms ongoing investigation |
| October 26, 2025 – Morning | Governor Josh Shapiro’s response | State authorities pledge full support to Lincoln University |
| Ongoing | Search for gunman | No suspects have been arrested as of the latest update |
Official Statements from Authorities
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that “law enforcement has responded to the scene and are actively investigating.”
The Oxford Borough Police Department also verified that, as of late Saturday night, no suspects were in custody in connection with the Lincoln University shooting 2025.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro took to social media to express his concern and support:
“I’ve been briefed on the shooting at Lincoln University tonight, and my administration has offered our full support to President Allen and local law enforcement.”
Officials have assured the community that state and federal agencies are collaborating to ensure public safety and identify the shooter responsible for the attack.
Lincoln University’s Response to the Shooting
Lincoln University’s administration released an emergency statement following the Lincoln University shooting 2025, confirming that campus safety protocols were activated immediately after the shots were fired.
The university also expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, writing:
“Our thoughts are with those affected by this tragic act of violence. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues.”
Classes and events scheduled for Sunday were temporarily suspended, and the campus remains under increased security surveillance.
Homecoming Weekend Turns Tragic
The Lincoln University shooting 2025 occurred during the school’s homecoming weekend, a major annual celebration that draws students, alumni, and families from across the country.
Earlier in the day, Lincoln University had hosted its homecoming football game, with thousands in attendance. The shooting later that night turned what was meant to be a joyous reunion into a scene of panic and grief.
Witnesses described chaos as attendees fled the scene. One student recounted:
“We were just celebrating homecoming when we heard the shots. Everyone started running and screaming. It was terrifying.”
Lincoln University: A Proud HBCU in Pennsylvania
Founded in 1854, Lincoln University is one of the nation’s oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, the institution has a rich legacy of empowering African American students and fostering academic excellence.
The Lincoln University shooting 2025 has therefore struck a deep chord — not only within Pennsylvania but also throughout the national HBCU community, which is calling for stronger campus safety measures.
Law Enforcement Investigation and Next Steps
Police have confirmed that the Lincoln University shooting 2025 remains an active investigation, with multiple law enforcement agencies collaborating to gather evidence.
Key details include:
- Forensics teams are analyzing the scene for shell casings and ballistic evidence.
- Witness interviews are ongoing to identify the shooter’s movements.
- Security footage from campus cameras is being reviewed.
- Increased patrols will continue around Lincoln University and nearby Oxford Borough.
Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Chester County Police Department or submit anonymous tips through the Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers hotline.
Gun Violence on College Campuses: A Growing Concern
The Lincoln University shooting 2025 adds to the troubling trend of gun violence on U.S. college campuses.
In recent years, incidents at Michigan State University, the University of Nevada, and South Carolina State University have sparked national debates about campus security, mental health, and gun control laws.
Experts warn that as large public events like homecomings grow in scale, universities must enhance safety measures, including metal detectors, bag checks, and more visible police presence.
Community Reaction and National Attention
The Lincoln University shooting 2025 has prompted an outpouring of support across social media. The hashtags #PrayForLincoln, #LincolnStrong, and #PennsylvaniaShooting have been trending nationwide.
Students, alumni, and public figures have shared messages of solidarity, calling for peace and reform.
One alumna wrote:
“Lincoln University is a place of pride and excellence. We can’t let violence define our community. We must come together stronger than ever.”
Comparison with Other Recent Campus Shootings
| University | Year | Casualties | Suspect Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan State University | 2023 | 3 dead, 5 injured | Shooter deceased |
| South Carolina State University | 2024 | 1 dead, 1 injured | Suspect arrested |
| Lincoln University Pennsylvania | 2025 | 7 injured (unconfirmed) | No suspect in custody |
This comparison highlights how the Lincoln University shooting 2025 fits into a larger national pattern of campus-related gun violence.
Governor Josh Shapiro and State Response
Governor Josh Shapiro’s office has pledged full cooperation with local authorities and offered state resources to support the investigation.
His statement emphasized that public safety remains a top priority:
“No student or family should ever have to experience such trauma. We will ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
Lawmakers in Harrisburg have also renewed calls for gun control legislation and campus safety funding in the wake of the Lincoln University shooting 2025.
Impact on Students and the Local Community
For Lincoln University students and residents of Oxford Borough, the Lincoln University shooting 2025 has caused deep emotional distress.
Counseling services and crisis response teams have been deployed to assist victims and witnesses.
Community leaders have organized prayer vigils and memorials to support those affected, emphasizing the need for unity and healing.
FAQs About the Lincoln University Shooting 2025
Q1: When did the Lincoln University shooting 2025 occur?
The incident happened on Saturday night, October 25, 2025, during homecoming weekend.
Q2: How many victims were injured?
Authorities confirmed multiple victims; early reports indicate at least seven people were hospitalized.
Q3: Has the shooter been caught?
As of the latest update, no suspects are in custody. Law enforcement continues to investigate.
Q4: What was Lincoln University’s response?
The university immediately enacted safety protocols, suspended classes, and is cooperating fully with law enforcement.
Q5: What is being done to improve campus safety?
Officials are reviewing event security policies and working with state authorities to strengthen protective measures.
Conclusion
The Lincoln University shooting 2025 stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenge of ensuring safety on college campuses. As investigations continue, the Chester County community — along with the entire state of Pennsylvania — is united in grief, resilience, and determination to prevent future tragedies.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s commitment to supporting law enforcement and Lincoln University leadership marks a crucial step forward. Still, the healing process will take time, and the lessons from this tragedy must lead to meaningful action.
The Lincoln University shooting 2025 should not just be remembered as another statistic but as a call for stronger security, compassion, and accountability in every educational institution.