Harvard issues shelter-in-place alert after shooting near campus: Here's what we know

Harvard University issued a shelter-in-place order on Friday morning after a reported shooting near the Radcliffe Quadrangle, according to alerts sent by the Harvard University Police Department (HUPD).The initial email alert from HUPD stated that an unidentified male fired at another person on Sherman Street, close to the Radcliffe Quad. The suspect was reportedly seen travelling on a bicycle towards Garden Street, a route connecting North Cambridge, the Quad, and Harvard Square, according to The Harvard Crimson.

Shelter-in-place order issued

Shortly after 11 AM, police instructed members of the university community to remain indoors and avoid the area.

The alert warned that the suspected shooter may be heading toward Harvard Square.A second alert, issued about ten minutes later, confirmed that both the Cambridge Police Department (CPD) and HUPD were continuing to search for the suspect. University affiliates were again urged to stay sheltered and keep away from the affected areas, including the Quad.

Search efforts continue

A third update, sent shortly before 11:30 AM, reiterated that the shooting had occurred near the Radcliffe Quad and that the suspect could still be moving in the direction of Harvard Square, The Harvard Crimson reports.

As of early afternoon, spokespeople for HUPD, CPD, and Harvard University had not responded to requests for comment.

Campus response and student reactions

Despite the alerts, several students and Cambridge residents were seen outside in the Quad roughly twenty minutes after the first message was issued. Staff members in at least one of the residential houses reportedly instructed students to remain indoors as a precaution, The Harvard Crimson reported.

Investigation ongoing

Police operations and search efforts are ongoing. Authorities have not yet released further details about the suspected shooter or the condition of the individual targeted in the incident.