Columbia, S.C. — The University of South Carolina issued an urgent emergency alert today regarding a potential active shooter situation at the Thomas Cooper Library, located at 1322 Greene Street. According to the university’s campus alert system, the suspect is described as a male, approximately six feet tall, last seen wearing black pants. Authorities have confirmed that the individual remains at large.
The alert, distributed widely to students, staff, and faculty, instructed members of the campus community to either evacuate the immediate area or shelter in place, depending on their location. Officials emphasized the critical importance of personal safety and provided specific guidance: barricade doors if escape is not possible, remain out of sight, and, if confronted, defend oneself to the best of their ability.
University and law enforcement officials urged everyone on campus to remain calm and to follow all directions from emergency personnel. “This is a developing incident, and our top priority is the safety of our campus community,” university representatives said.
In addition to instructions for those inside the library, the public has been strongly advised to avoid the surrounding area until further notice. Roads near Greene Street may be temporarily closed, and law enforcement officers are actively coordinating a search for the suspect.
University officials have pledged to provide ongoing updates as more information becomes available and encouraged anyone with knowledge of the situation to immediately contact campus police.
The Thomas Cooper Library, one of the main academic hubs of the university, houses thousands of students and faculty members daily, making the alert a critical and urgent situation. Safety officials continue to work closely with local law enforcement to secure the area and ensure the protection of all individuals on campus.
As the situation develops, members of the public and the university community are urged to stay informed through official channels, including the University of South Carolina alert system and local news outlets.
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