UMass Lowell Campus Lockdown Lifted After Gun Scare: Police Maintain Presence
The UMass Lowell campus lockdown has been lifted after hours of tense shelter-in-place orders triggered by a report of a person possibly carrying a gun. The incident, which occurred on the first day of classes, prompted a massive law enforcement response, including local police, state police, the FBI, ATF, SWAT teams, drones, and K-9 units. While no shots were fired and no injuries were reported, officials are keeping a strong police presence at residence halls overnight as the investigation continues.
Timeline of the Lockdown
Police said they received the first report of a person potentially armed just before 2:30 p.m. on September 3, 2025. Soon after, a video surfaced online showing an individual with what appeared to be a weapon near the Riverview Suites residence hall. In response, the university issued alerts urging students to shelter in place as officers swarmed South Campus.
The lockdown lasted more than two hours before officials confirmed the suspect was no longer in the vicinity. “To be clear: At no time was this an active shooter incident, and we’ve received no reports of a shooting or of any injuries,” said UMass Lowell Police Chief Ron Dickerson.
Campus Response and Student Experience
For many students, the alert was frightening, especially since it coincided with the first day of the semester. Freshman Christopher Haverty recalled receiving the emergency notification while in a criminology class: “We were literally learning about mass shooters when the alert came in.” Senior Andrew Fenner echoed the sentiment, saying, “You never think it’ll happen to you until it does.”
Some students reported huddling in classrooms with over 100 people, checking phones for updates and contacting friends. Army veteran and UMass junior Justin Ford said he helped calm others by reminding them of basic safety protocols: cover windows, barricade doors, stay quiet, and stay low. “At one point, someone wanted to leave the classroom, and I asked them to stay for the safety of everyone else,” he said.
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Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement has confirmed that no gunshots were fired, and there is no evidence of an active shooter. Still, officials are working to authenticate the video and locate the individual. Police have urged anyone with information to call 978-937-3200. Counseling sessions have been scheduled for students on campus, recognizing the emotional toll of the incident.
Representative Lori Trahan also released a statement on social media, confirming she was “actively monitoring the situation” and urging the community to follow police instructions.
🔎 Key Summary
- Report of armed individual near Riverview Suites triggered lockdown
- Lockdown lasted over two hours on the first day of classes
- No shots fired, no injuries reported
- Police, FBI, ATF, SWAT, and K-9 teams deployed
- Strong police presence to remain at residence halls overnight
- Counseling services available for students
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FAQ: UMass Lowell Lockdown Incident
1. Was there an active shooter at UMass Lowell?
No. Police confirmed this was not an active shooter incident, and there were no reports of shots fired or injuries.
2. Why was the campus locked down?
A video surfaced appearing to show someone with a weapon near Riverview Suites, prompting a precautionary lockdown.
3. How long did the lockdown last?
The lockdown lasted more than two hours on September 3, 2025, before officials lifted shelter-in-place orders.
4. What security measures are in place now?
Police will maintain a strong presence on campus, with officers stationed at all residence halls overnight.
5. Where can students seek support?
Counseling sessions are available across campus on Wednesday and Thursday for students affected by the incident.
Conclusion: Heightened Vigilance Amid Relief
The UMass Lowell lockdown serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of preparedness in an era where campus safety is a top concern. While authorities confirmed there was no active shooter and no injuries, the swift police response and lockdown procedures underscored the seriousness of the report. For students and faculty, the incident highlighted the need for vigilance, clear communication, and strong mental health support in the aftermath of a high-alert situation.
