The Emporia community was thrown into fear and uncertainty Thursday afternoon following reports of an active shooter at Newman Regional Health, one of the city’s central healthcare facilities. The alert, issued by Emporia State University (ESU) at approximately 4:40 p.m., triggered immediate lockdowns across the campus and surrounding areas, as residents and students scrambled to ensure their safety.
According to the initial ESU alert, individuals in the vicinity were instructed to “Run. Hide. Fight,” following the nationally recognized safety protocol for active shooter situations. The alert emphasized that anyone off campus should remain away from the area until the threat was contained.
The shooting was reported near Cora Miller Hall and the Newman Regional Health campus, both close to ESU. Within minutes, campus officials and law enforcement coordinated to secure the area, evacuating accessible zones and establishing perimeters to prevent further harm. The university updated its website and social media accounts with detailed safety instructions, advising people to lock doors, remain out of sight, silence phones, and remain calm until authorities could arrive.
Police and emergency responders, including local sheriff’s deputies and state law enforcement, arrived swiftly on the scene. Multiple law enforcement units blocked off surrounding streets, while tactical teams and medics worked to assess the situation. As of Thursday evening, authorities had not publicly released information on the shooter, victims, or any fatalities, citing the ongoing investigation and the need to verify facts.
The incident sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the fragility of safety in public spaces, even at medical facilities meant to serve and protect. Students, staff, and local residents reported hearing sirens, seeing police vehicles flood the streets, and witnessing tense lockdown procedures. Many described feelings of panic and helplessness as the situation unfolded.
Officials reminded the public of the importance of following law enforcement guidance during such events. “Remain calm, keep your hands visible, and follow officer instructions,” one advisory read, emphasizing the coordinated efforts between university personnel and first responders to protect lives.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing concerns about security in public institutions, particularly hospitals and educational campuses. Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading to the shooting, including potential motives, and have pledged transparency once verified details are available.
Community leaders, students, and families are left grappling with fear and uncertainty, calling for increased awareness and support for all those affected. Counseling and crisis services are expected to be made available to staff, students, and residents as the investigation continues.
The city of Emporia, ESU, and Newman Regional Health have all expressed condolences to those impacted by the incident, while urging anyone with information regarding the shooter or the events of Thursday afternoon to contact local law enforcement immediately.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the full scope of the tragedy, supporting victims, and restoring a sense of safety to a community shaken by violence in what should have been a place of care.