Police are investigating the shooting death of an 18-year-old on the campus of Delaware State University early Sunday morning. According to Dover Police, officers responded at about 1:40 a.m. to a report of shots on the campus’ freshman dorm, Warren-Franklin Residential Hall; upon arriving at the scene, they located an 18-year-old woman who was not a registered student who had been shot in the upper body. The young woman was taken to Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus where she died from her injuries. Her identity has not yet been released by police. Police said no other injuries were reported in connection to the shooting, and at this time they don’t have a description of any possible suspects.
A university statement provided by police said the campus was closed Sunday with no visitation permitted, with all events canceled and police patrols increased. Delaware State University’s statement posted on the Dover PD’s website read: “The DSU Police Department and staff will continue to take all necessary actions to ensure the health and well-being of our campus community. Counseling services are available in the Tubman Laws Hall housing office. The campus is closed today, events have been cancelled, and police patrols have been increased. No visitation will be permitted today.”
Dover police and Delaware State University police are investigating the case, which was classified as a homicide. The Delaware State University Student Government Association said in a statement posted on Instagram that the shooting “tragic” and urged the rest of the campus community to stay safe: “as your Student Government Association, we stand united in supporting one another through this difficult time. Let us come together to offer comfort, strength, and solidarity to those affected by this tragedy.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (302)736-7130 or submit tips through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.
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