Columbia, S.C. — Alarming reports are coming out of the University of South Carolina tonight as police confirmed an active shooter situation at the Thomas Cooper Library in Columbia.
Students have been urged to shelter in place and avoid the library area as law enforcement swarms the campus. Sirens and alerts have echoed across USC, with messages telling students to lock doors, stay away from windows, and remain quiet until the all-clear is given.
Local police, along with USC security, are actively responding to the threat. The extent of injuries or casualties remains unclear at this time, but eyewitnesses describe a scene of panic as students rushed to barricade classrooms and study halls inside the library.
Parents and families have flooded social media with pleas for information as the story continues to unfold. Emergency crews are setting up perimeters around campus, while nearby roads remain blocked off for safety.
What We Know So Far
Reports of shots fired at Thomas Cooper Library.
USC issued emergency alerts to students and staff.
Law enforcement officers on the scene in large numbers.
No official word yet on injuries or suspects.
This is a developing story, and details are still emerging. Students, staff, and the USC community are urged to remain vigilant and follow official guidance.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.