Elizabeth City State University shooting
A tragic shooting early Sunday morning has left one man dead and six others injured on the campus of Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), a historically Black institution in northeastern North Carolina.
The violence unfolded around 12:30 a.m. following “Yard Fest,” the signature event closing out the university’s annual Viking Fest celebration. According to university officials, the deceased was a 24-year-old man who was not enrolled at ECSU. He has been identified as Isaiah Caldwell, according to an Instagram post by Ahmad McDougle, the CEO of Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship Incorporated.
Among the injured were four individuals who suffered gunshot wounds, including three ECSU students. Two additional students sustained injuries during the chaotic aftermath as students and attendees fled the scene. All six were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Fortunately, none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
University and Law Enforcement Response
Immediately following the incident, ECSU officials initiated a campus-wide lockdown and issued a shelter-in-place order to protect students and staff. Law enforcement agencies responded quickly and have since secured the campus.
ECSU released a statement expressing sorrow for the incident and emphasizing their commitment to campus safety.
“The safety of our Viking community remains our top priority,” university officials stated. “We are offering counseling services to students and employees affected by this tragedy.”
Authorities have not yet released information about any suspects or possible motives. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials are urging anyone with information to contact local law enforcement.
About Viking Fest
Viking Fest is ECSU’s highly anticipated, weeklong event celebrating school spirit, culture, and community. It draws students, alumni, and visitors from across the region for concerts, festivals, and campus gatherings. Yard Fest, the final event of the week, typically features music performances, food vendors, and activities for students.
Multiple agencies are actively investigating the incident, including ECSU Police, Elizabeth City Police Department, Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office, Camden County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI). Authorities have not announced any arrests at this time. The SBI is seeking assistance from the public and urges anyone with information, videos, or pictures from the event to contact them at 919-662-4500 or the ECSU Police Department at 252-335-3266.
