Black communities across America are reeling from a disturbing trend, as two historically Black universities, Howard and Lincoln, were rocked by gun violence during their homecoming celebrations. What should have been weekends of joyful reunion and festivity turned into scenes of chaos and fear, leaving multiple people injured and calling for the safety of Black institutions.
“Mass shooting at Howard University yesterday, and now mass shooting at Lincoln! Praying. We have to protect our HBCUs,” posted one user on X.
At Howard University, the air of excitement for Homecoming Kick-Off and a Greek Step Show on Friday night (Oct. 24) was shattered by gunfire. Shots rang out around 8:30 pm on the 600 Block of Howard, NW, sending hundreds fleeing for safety. While no Howard students were among the injured, a senior from Morgan State University was a victim.
In total, three adult males, one adult woman, and a 13-year-old boy sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to D.C. News Now. Police, already patrolling the area, swiftly responded, leading to the arrest of two unnamed suspects and the recovery of three guns at a nearby McDonald’s on Georgia Avenue, according to NBC Washington.
D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith has vowed “robust” security for the remainder of Howard’s Homecoming, sending a clear message that the city “will not tolerate individuals who come into the city with firearms.” Howard University itself released a statement on The Dig at Howard University on Saturday (Oct. 25), confirming that none of the suspects were affiliated with the university and praising the swift actions of the Metropolitan Police Department and the Howard University Department of Public Safety (HUPD). The statement reiterated the university’s commitment to safety, announcing “enhanced security measures throughout the weekend, including an increased presence of University security personnel and local law enforcement agencies on and around campus.”
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