Towson, Maryland — A tense situation unfolded at Towson University on Thursday night after a man accidentally shot himself while allegedly attempting a robbery inside a campus residence building, authorities said.
According to Baltimore County Police and university officials, the incident occurred around 9:15 p.m. in a stairwell of Tower C on the 150 block of Cross Campus Drive. Police were initially called for reports of possible gunfire, prompting a rapid emergency response on campus.
When officers arrived, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Investigators later determined the injury was self-inflicted and not life-threatening. The suspect was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
What Happened
Authorities say the man, who is not a student at the university, discharged a firearm during what appears to have been a robbery attempt. In the process, he accidentally shot himself in the lower body.
No other injuries were reported, and officials emphasized that the incident appears to be isolated.
Campus police, working alongside county officers, secured the area and began an investigation shortly after the shooting. Charges against the suspect are pending as authorities continue to gather details.
Strong Emergency Response on Campus
Students described a heavy police and emergency presence shortly after the incident. Videos circulating among students showed multiple police vehicles and ambulances lining the area near the residence hall.
One freshman recalled hearing confusion spread quickly among students nearby. Another student described the situation as frightening, saying the uncertainty made it hard to understand what was happening in the moment.
Student Concerns About Safety
The incident has raised concerns among students about campus security, especially inside residential buildings.
Students explained that access to dorms typically requires a university ID, and guests must be signed in. However, some pointed out that front desk staff are often students rather than trained security personnel.
One student shared that while they try to stay alert, there are limits to what they can do in terms of security enforcement. Others expressed unease about how easily an outsider might gain access without stricter measures like metal detectors or physical checks.
University Response
University officials reiterated that firearms are strictly prohibited on campus and confirmed that an internal review is underway following the incident. The review is expected to examine response protocols and overall campus safety procedures.
The situation comes just as the university prepares for its annual TigerFest weekend, a time when campus activity is expected to increase significantly.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities are still working to determine how the suspect entered the building and whether he had a specific target. It remains unclear if he was properly signed in or gained access through other means.
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.
While the immediate threat has been contained, the incident has left many on campus shaken, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and access control in shared living spaces.
