NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Police at Old Dominion University are looking to identify a male who appeared to have a gun on campus on Tuesday night.
The report of a person with a gun at ODU’s Webb Center prompted ODU to send out an urgent alert to eh school community around 1:16 p.m., asking them to shelter in place. ODU police later gave an all clear at 1:31 p.m.
“Officers responded to the location, secured the area, and after an extensive search, were able to deem there was no continuing threat to the health and safety of the ODU community,” ODU Police Chief Garrett Shelton said in an update at 3:28 p.m. Wednesday.
Shelton says his officers were able to confirm the person pictured was on campus and in possession of what appeared to be a firearm.
The case remains under investigation and patrols at the Webb Center and greater campus community have been increase, Shelton said.
ODUPD meanwhile shared these safety tips:
ODUPD suggest members of the campus community follow these safety tips.
- Stay vigilant of your surroundings, refrain from walking alone, walk with your head up, and avoid distractions like cell phones or carrying too many items.
- Be a responsible bystander; look-out for fellow Monarchs. Trust your instincts – if you sense trouble, move to a safe location as soon as possible and promptly contact ODUPD at 757-683-4000 (911 from campus phones) or through the LiveSafe app to report any criminal activity or suspicious behavior, providing detailed information about the situation.
- Take any threats seriously. Assume the presence of a weapon if someone hints at its use, even if not immediately visible.
- Maintain composure and avoid sudden actions that could escalate a situation.
- Refrain from making eye contact with threatening individuals, as it may be perceived as a challenge. Maintain neutral body language.
- Identify potential escape routes and safe areas in case of an emergency. Create distance or move to a secure location without drawing attention.
- If unable to escape, seek a secure hiding place. Secure doors, if possible, remain silent, and turn off lights to avoid detection.
