A night meant to celebrate alumni and school spirit at Lincoln University turned into a tragedy on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Gunfire erupted during the homecoming tailgate near the International Cultural Center, leaving one person dead and six others injured.
The shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m., just after the university’s football game. Attendees, including students, alumni, and community members, had gathered for a post-game celebration when chaos ensued. Witnesses described a scene of panic as people fled in all directions.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe confirmed the fatalities and injuries, describing the situation as “devastating.” He stated that one individual was detained near the scene and was found in possession of a firearm. Authorities are investigating the possibility of multiple shooters being involved, but no formal charges have been announced as of Sunday morning.
Preliminary evidence suggests that the incident may have stemmed from a confrontation that escalated during the large outdoor gathering. Investigators do not believe the attack was premeditated or intended to inflict mass harm on the campus.
The university was briefly placed on lockdown as a precaution, but the order was lifted after officials determined there was no active threat to campus safety. In response to the tragedy, Lincoln University announced that counseling and support services would be available to students and staff beginning Sunday morning.
Founded in 1854 as The Ashmun Institute, Lincoln University is recognized as the nation’s first degree-granting Historically Black College or University (HBCU). The school counts among its distinguished alumni U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, Baseball Hall of Famer Monte Irvin, and Namibian Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro addressed the incident on social media, saying, “I’ve been briefed on the shooting at Lincoln University tonight, and my Administration has offered our full support to President [Brenda] Allen and local law enforcement. Please avoid the area, follow police guidance, and join Lori and me in praying for the Lincoln University community.”
The investigation into the Lincoln University homecoming shooting remains active. Authorities are urging anyone with information, photos, or videos from the event to come forward to assist investigators.
