Lincoln University canceled classes on Monday, bringing students and staff together for a day of reflection following a shooting that left one person dead and six others injured during homecoming celebrations over the weekend. The campus, a historically Black college and university in Chester County, Pennsylvania, paused its academic schedule to allow the community to process the tragic events.
Key Takeaways
- A shooting during Lincoln University's homecoming weekend resulted in one fatality and six injuries.
- The deceased has been identified as 20-year-old Jujuan Jeffers.
- One person, Zaccaheus Morgan Thompson, 21, is in custody on a firearms charge, though his connection to the shooting is under investigation.
- The university canceled classes on Monday to hold a community gathering for healing and reflection.
- Authorities believe there may have been more than one shooter involved in the incident.
A Campus in Mourning
The mood at Lincoln University on Monday was somber as community members gathered to support one another. The event, designed to help students and staff reconnect and heal, replaced the usual campus bustle with quiet reflection. The administration's decision to cancel classes allowed for a collective space to grieve and begin the recovery process after a weekend meant for celebration was shattered by violence.
Many who attended the gathering expressed their shock and sorrow. The incident has left a deep impact on the tight-knit community, known for its vibrant and peaceful environment.
"I think people are reeling," one community member noted. "We all know what a vibrant, beautiful, peaceful, creative, smart place it is with people who work so hard to have a positive impact and to have this happen when everybody was just trying to have a good time is heartbreaking."
The gathering served as a first step for a campus grappling with an act of violence that has left many searching for answers and comfort.
Details of the Weekend Incident
The shooting occurred Saturday night during homecoming festivities, a major annual event that draws large crowds of students, alumni, and visitors. According to the Chester County District Attorney's office, gunfire erupted, leading to chaos and multiple casualties. Jujuan Jeffers, 20, was fatally wounded and pronounced dead shortly after midnight on Sunday.
Six other individuals, all reported to be between the ages of 20 and 25, sustained injuries. Officials have stated that their injuries are not life-threatening and they are all expected to survive.
Incident at a Glance
- Fatalities: 1 (Jujuan Jeffers, 20)
- Injuries: 6 (Ages 20-25)
- Event: Lincoln University Homecoming
- Location: Chester County, Pennsylvania
The large turnout for homecoming was noted by local residents. Amy Marks Delaney, who lives near the campus, expressed her earlier concerns about the dense crowds.
"I was concerned because there was so much parking around campus that clogged the roads, and I just thought, if something happens, it would be hard to get out," she said.
Ongoing Investigation and Arrest
The investigation into the shooting is active and involves multiple law enforcement agencies. According to the Chester County District Attorney, 21-year-old Zaccaheus Morgan Thompson is the only person currently in custody in connection with the events of that night.
Court documents reveal that an officer saw Morgan Thompson with a handgun at the scene. He was arrested and charged with carrying a concealed firearm without a license. However, authorities have been clear that it is not yet known if the weapon he possessed was used in the shooting.
Search for More Information
Officials have indicated they have reason to believe there was more than one shooter. They also stated that the incident was not intended to be a mass casualty event. The FBI's Philadelphia office has joined the investigation and is asking for the public's help. They have requested that anyone with photos or videos from the Lincoln University campus on the night of the shooting submit them to assist with the investigation.
It remains unclear whether the victim, Jujuan Jeffers, was a student at the university or a visitor attending the homecoming celebrations. The investigation continues to piece together the sequence of events and identify all individuals responsible for the violence.
A Community Looks Forward
As law enforcement continues its work, the Lincoln University community is focused on healing. The gathering on Monday was a testament to the resilience of its students and staff. The university, the nation's first degree-granting Historically Black College and University (HBCU), has a long history of overcoming adversity, and its leadership is emphasizing unity in the face of this tragedy.
While the campus remains quiet, the focus is on providing resources and support for those affected. The path forward involves not only seeking justice for the victims but also reinforcing the sense of safety and community that has long defined the institution.