UNM Shooting: 1 Dead, 1 Injured in Albuquerque Campus Attack; Suspect Still at Large

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – A shooting at the University of New Mexico early Friday morning left one person dead and another injured, prompting a campus-wide lockdown as authorities search for the suspect, who may still be on campus.

The incident occurred at Casas del Rio, a student housing complex on UNM’s Albuquerque campus. Campus police responded to reports of gunfire and discovered two victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

UNM officials issued an immediate shelter-in-place order and shut down the Albuquerque central campus as a precaution.

“Out of an abundance of caution, UNM has closed its Albuquerque central campus,” the university announced on social media. “Multiple law enforcement agencies are on scene and actively investigating.”

Details of the UNM Shooting Incident

The shooting occurred in the early hours of Friday morning at Casas del Rio, a popular student housing facility near the main campus. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or the suspect.

According to NBC affiliate KOB 4, the shooting took place while new student orientation was being held on campus, raising concerns about the safety of incoming students and their families.

Campus Lockdown and Police Response

UNM Police, along with Albuquerque Police Department (APD) and New Mexico State Police, are actively searching for the suspect, who remains at large.

• Students and faculty were instructed to shelter in place until further notice.
• The campus was temporarily closed, with law enforcement conducting a thorough search.
• Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the suspect’s identity and motive.

Community Reaction and Safety Concerns

The shooting has sparked fear and frustration among students and parents, many of whom are questioning campus security measures.

• UNM President Garnett Stokes released a statement urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
• Counseling services have been made available for students and staff affected by the incident.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random, but they are treating it as an active threat until the suspect is apprehended.

• Police are asking anyone with information to contact UNM Police or APD.
• No additional suspects have been identified at this time.

University of New Mexico’s History of Campus Safety

While UNM has generally maintained a safe campus environment, this incident highlights growing concerns about gun violence on college campuses.

• In recent years, universities nationwide have increased security measures, including more campus police patrols and emergency alert systems.
• UNM has not yet announced any long-term security changes but may review policies following this incident.

What’s Next?

As the investigation continues, students and faculty are urged to:

✔ Stay indoors until authorities confirm the suspect is no longer a threat.
✔ Monitor University of New Mexico alerts for updates on campus reopening.
✔ Report any suspicious activity to campus police immediately.

Conclusion

The UNM shooting has left the Albuquerque community in shock, with one life lost and another injured. As law enforcement works to locate the suspect, the university remains on high alert, emphasizing the need for campus safety improvements.

For the latest updates, visit the official UNM website or follow local news outlets.