On Wednesday, authorities swiftly imposed a shelter-in-place order across the UMass Lowell campus after reports surfaced of a man carrying what appeared to be a weapon. Campus-wide alerts urged everyone to stay indoors until further notice.
According to footage captured by Sky5, a substantial police response—comprising state police, campus security, and local law enforcement—has converged near the Riverview Suites on South Campus. Observers noted numerous police vehicles, barricades, and officers searching the area for the individual in question. While authorities described the situation as a “weapons incident,” they confirmed that no shots have been fired .
Officials briefed community members that the suspect is believed to be a 5-foot-5 Asian male, seen near Riverview Suites on Middlesex Street, wearing a gray or white sweatshirt, black shorts, and carrying a long firearm resembling an AR-15 .
In addition, Massachusetts State Police acknowledged circulating video footage that appears to show the armed individual walking near the dorms. They have urged anyone with relevant information to call 911 .
Local leaders are also weighing in:
Rep. Lori Trahan said she’s closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with local authorities. She encouraged residents to follow instructions from both Lowell Police and UMass Lowell officials . Meanwhile, Lowell Public Schools is redirecting students away from the South Campus area. Students on cross-country teams are safely sheltered inside their respective schools, and any student affected by bus route disruptions will be escorted to the Moody School, officials said .
As the search continues, this remains a developing situation. Stay tuned—updates will follow as new information becomes available.