Chaos erupted Friday night near Howard University when gunfire broke out along Georgia Avenue NW, leaving at least four people wounded during the school’s homecoming celebrations. The shooting occurred around 10:30 p.m. in the 2300 block of Georgia Avenue, an area crowded with students, alumni, and visitors attending one of Washington, D.C.’s biggest annual college events. Authorities said all four victims were taken to local hospitals — one in critical condition, another in serious condition, and two others expected to recover.

Witnesses described a terrifying scene as the sound of rapid gunfire sent crowds fleeing in panic. “We were just dancing, and then everyone started screaming,” one student told FOX 5 DC. “It felt like chaos in seconds.” Police quickly swarmed the area, shutting down nearby streets as investigators combed the scene for evidence and reviewed surveillance footage. So far, no arrests have been made, and police have not identified any suspects or confirmed a motive, though they believe the shooting may have stemmed from an off-campus gathering related to homecoming events.

Howard University officials issued a brief statement urging calm and reassuring the community that official homecoming activities were not directly impacted. However, they announced that all upcoming events would undergo additional security reviews. The university and police are asking anyone with information to contact the Metropolitan Police Department. Online, students and alumni expressed anger and sorrow that a night meant for unity and celebration turned into tragedy. “It’s devastating that our students can’t even feel safe at their own homecoming,” one alum wrote. The investigation remains ongoing as D.C. authorities continue to gather evidence and the community awaits further updates.

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