Campus on High Alert Following Reports of Armed Individual
The University of Massachusetts Lowell campus was placed under a shelter-in-place order on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, after reports of a potentially armed individual surfaced, casting a shadow over what was supposed to be the first day of classes. The university issued an emergency alert to its community of approximately 16,900 students, urging them to seek safety and avoid the South Campus area as a multi-agency law enforcement response was initiated.
The initial alert, sent to students and staff, warned of a “reported weapons incident @ Riverview Suites, South Campus,” and advised recipients to “Run, hide, fight.” This directive is part of standard active threat protocols designed to provide clear, actionable guidance in a crisis. The university’s emergency preparedness guidelines recommend evacuating if possible, or otherwise securing a location by barricading doors and remaining silent.
Intensive Search and Suspect Description
A massive police presence, including Lowell Police, Massachusetts State Police, and the FBI, quickly converged on the campus. Lowell Mayor Daniel Rourke confirmed the involvement of state and federal agencies, highlighting the seriousness of the threat. A state police helicopter was seen circling the area as tactical teams established a perimeter around the South Campus, particularly focusing on the Riverview Suites residence hall, a dorm located on Middlesex Street that houses some of the 3,700 students who live on campus.
Authorities released a description of the suspect they are actively searching for. According to alerts from the Lowell Police Department, the individual is described as:
- An Asian male, approximately 5’5″ tall.
- Wearing a gray or white sweatshirt and black shorts.
- Reportedly carrying a long weapon.
The suspect was last seen near the rear of the Riverview Suites. Law enforcement has urged anyone with information to call 911 or UMass Lowell Police directly at 978-934-4911, but strongly cautioned the public not to approach or engage the individual. As reported by digitaltrendstoday.com, the situation remains a developing investigation.
Community Reaction and Official Statements
The incident has drawn concern from public officials. U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan, who represents the district, posted on social media that she was in contact with local officials and actively monitoring the situation. “If you are in Lowell, please follow directions from Lowell Police Department (Official) and UMass Lowell,” she advised residents.
Adding to the tension, Massachusetts State Police acknowledged that a video was circulating online that appeared to show a person matching the suspect’s description walking with a weapon near the residence hall. The authenticity of the video is part of the ongoing investigation. As of the latest reports, there have been no confirmed shots fired and no injuries have been reported. The campus remains under a strict shelter-in-place order, with all activities halted as the search continues. The university and law enforcement are working to secure the campus and resolve the situation safely, while a community that was just beginning its academic year waits anxiously for updates.
