The University of Iowa issued a shelter-in-place alert on Friday afternoon following reports of gunfire several blocks from campus. The Iowa City Police Department reported that officers responded to multiple gunshot sounds around 1:29 p.m. in the 900 block of East Burlington Street. Witness accounts indicated numerous shots were fired, prompting a swift police response, during which evidence of gunfire was collected.
At approximately 1:51 p.m., a Hawk Alert was sent out advising students and staff to shelter in place as a suspect was seen fleeing on foot towards the west. The vicinity includes several student housing complexes located just off the university campus.
Subsequently, university police clarified that the incident took place off-campus and the alert was issued following the Iowa City Police Department’s recommendation, emphasizing a precautionary approach.
By the afternoon, local authorities determined that the shooting was likely an isolated incident, indicating there was no ongoing threat to the community. However, residents were still urged to remain alert and vigilant.
The situation briefly disrupted activities in the downtown area, including the evacuation of the FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff broadcast team, who were on-site preparing for the Iowa–Oregon football game scheduled for Saturday.
As the investigation continues, more updates will be provided as information becomes available. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community awareness and vigilance in ensuring safety on and around university campuses.