Threats Prompt Closures at Several Historically Black Universities

On Thursday, multiple historically black universities decided to close their campuses following threats received the day after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University.

Among the institutions affected are Hampton University, Virginia State University, Bethune-Cookman University, Southern University, and Alabama State University.

Hampton University announced via social media that they have halted all non-essential activities due to potential threats. They emphasized, “The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors remains our number one priority.”

State police are currently investigating, as reported by local news outlets from the scene of the incident.

Classes and campus activities have been canceled for the foreseeable future across all affected universities.

Virginia State University, located near Richmond, Virginia, stated, “Lockdown,” while Alabama State University in Montgomery urged students to evacuate as a precaution.

Officials at Bethune-Cookman University are assisting students in returning to their dorms and ensuring their safety. They noted, “All teachers and staff should go home, and those not present should work remotely. Safety is our number one priority, and we’ll provide updates as they come.”

This wave of threats follows the tragic death of Kirk, who was shot in the neck during a dialogue with a student regarding gun violence. The event was part of the “American Comeback Tour,” organized by Turning Point USA.

The suspect remains at large, although authorities have recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting.

In a separate incident, a shooting at a Colorado high school resulted in injuries to two students. According to Everytown, over 100 shootings on school grounds occurred in 2025, leading to 32 fatalities and 98 injuries nationwide.