UPDATE: Administrators at the University of North Carolina-Wilmington have given the all-clear after alerting students to shelter in place due to reports of a potential gunman.
The university confirmed it was a “false alarm,” and no active attacker was found on campus. The university said it would release more details about campus operations soon.
All Clear! False alarm. No active attacker on campus. More info about class cancellations, operations to come soon. September 18, 2025 pic.twitter.com/Db8aFLhNpg
— UNCW (@UNCWilmington) September 19, 2025
The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNC Wilmington) went on lockdown on Thursday evening after reports of a person with a gun on campus. Local media outlet WWAY reported that the alert was issued around 7:20 PM local time.
The university posted on X:
“UNCW Alert! University Police have received unconfirmed reports of gunman on campus. UPD is investigating. Shelter in place at this time.”
The University Police Department is actively investigating the reports. It remains unclear whether the threat is confirmed.
🚨 The University of North Carolina Wilmington is on lockdown following reports of a possible gunman on campus.
UNC Wilmington University Police are investigating, and a shelter-in-place order is currently in effect.Stay safe! #NorthCarolina #Wilmington #USA #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/yKmKjSyuSG
— LoudFact (@loudfactcom) September 19, 2025
Campus Locked Down as Authorities Search
Sirens were heard across the UNC Wilmington campus as officials instructed all students and staff to shelter in place. Authorities urged everyone to stay indoors, lock doors, and avoid campus grounds until further notice.
A video captured from a nearby parking lot appears to show a person walking while holding what looks like a firearm, prompting a heightened response from law enforcement.
Location and Context
UNC Wilmington’s main campus is located along North Carolina’s southeastern coast, just a few miles from Wrightsville Beach and approximately 140 miles southeast of Raleigh, the state capital.
The lockdown comes just days after a memorial site dedicated to Charlie Kirk on campus became the center of controversy following student disruptions during a vigil earlier this week.
Police Continue Investigation
Authorities continue to search the campus area for the individual seen in the video. Students and staff are being advised to remain indoors and follow all official instructions until the situation is resolved.
