A shooting incident during an event at Illinois State University’s Bone Student Center late Sunday evening has left one person injured and prompted an urgent search for the suspect, according to university officials and the Normal Police Department.
Authorities say the shooting occurred shortly after 10:00 p.m. during a registered student organization event inside the Bone Student Center. The victim, who is not an ISU student, sustained a gunshot wound following what officials described as a verbal altercation that escalated into violence. The injured individual was transported to a nearby hospital and is currently in stable condition.
The suspect, still at large, has been described as a slender Black male approximately 5’10” tall, wearing all black clothing and sporting an afro hairstyle. Witnesses reported the suspect fleeing the scene on foot, heading south near the intersection of University and College Streets.
University and Police Response
In response to the incident, the Bone Student Center has been temporarily closed, and all scheduled activities within the facility have been canceled until further notice. Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule issued a statement early Monday morning, assuring students and staff that the safety of the campus community remains the highest priority.
“This kind of violence has no place at Illinois State University,” President Tarhule said. “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement and offering our full support to the affected individuals.”
ISU’s Division of Student Affairs has made counseling services available for students and staff impacted by the incident. The Student Counseling Services office, located in the Student Services Building, will have extended hours this week.
Investigation Ongoing
The Normal Police Department is leading the investigation and urges anyone with information or video footage from the area to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by texting “NORMALPD” followed by the information to 847411 or by calling the department at (309) 454-9535.
Police are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to identify and locate the suspect. No arrests have been made as of Monday morning.
Authorities are asking the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in or around the campus.
