BRIDGEWATER, Va. (WWBT) - Police said two officers were shot and a suspect is in custody following reports of an active shooting on Bridgewater College campus.
The situation continues to unfold and possible injuries related to the situation are unknown.
In a statement from the college, multiple law enforcement agencies responded to campus for the ”initial report came in that two officers had been shot and the armed suspect had fled the scene.”
Virginia State Police said a Bridgewater College Campus Law Enforcement Officer and Campus Safety Officer were shot.
In an email sent to students and staff, the college said Campus Police Officer John Painter and Campus Safety Officer J.J. Jefferson were shot and killed.
“These officers were close friends, known to many of us as the “dynamic duo.” John was J.J.’s best man in his wedding this year. They were beloved by students, faculty and staff. I hurt for their families and loved ones, as I know we all do,” Bridgewater College President David Bushman said in the email.
About 45 minutes after the initial alert from the college, it said an individual was in custody following a massive search.
“This is a sad and dark day for Bridgewater College. I know we all have so many questions and not many answers. One thing I do know, though, is that we will rally around one another and support each other as we move forward from this day. We are all victims, though some much more so than others, and it will be important that we each seek to find comfort and support in the ways most meaningful for us,” Bushman said in the email to students.
Virginia State Police is on the scene, and Harrisonburg Police are also assisting.
This story will be updated at https://www.nbc12.com/2022/02/01/2-officers-killed-shooting-bridgewater-college-suspect-custody/