MUW releases statement following shooting

COLUMBUS, Miss. (PRESS RELEASE)- Mississippi University for Women Police and the Columbus Police Departments continue to investigate a shooting incident that occurred Friday afternoon about 1 p.m. in the proximity of The W’s campus.

At this time, police are investigating the possibility that the shooting was self-inflicted by the victim.

“The incident was called into The W’s Police Department at 12:56 p.m.,” said W Police Chief Randy Vibrock. “Officers were on the scene within two minutes to provide aid and the university went into lockdown.”

Emergency officials, including city, county and campus authorities, promptly responded to campus. State and federal agencies also were on the scene.

“We are still in the middle of the investigation, but there are some things we know,” said Columbus Police Chief Fred Shelton.

There was a weapon recovered at the scene in the victim’s vehicle. “We are running tests to determine if the weapon was the one used in the shooting,” Shelton added.

The victim was transported by ambulance to Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle.

“We can’t give out more information on the victim’s condition, but the public needs to know that we are investigating whether or not the shooting was self-inflicted,” said Shelton.

MUW is the lead agency on the case, and Columbus Police are providing assistance on the case. Columbus police do not identify crime victims and will not do so in this case.

After the campus lockdown was lifted, Chief Shelton said, “There is no immediate danger to the public regarding the MUW incident today. Business can be conducted per normal and there’s no need for businesses to lock their doors. The case is still under investigation.”

This is an ongoing investigation and updates will be shared when additional information is available.