Lincoln University mass shooting in Chester County, Pennsylvania: 1 dead, 6 wounded during Homecoming festivities

A night meant for celebration at Lincoln University turned tragic on Saturday, October 25, 2025, when gunfire erupted outside the campus International Cultural Center during Homecoming festivities. Officials confirmed one person was killed and six others were wounded. Authorities said a person was detained with a firearm shortly after the incident, and investigators are examining whether more than one shooter was involved. As of Sunday morning, officials indicated there was no ongoing threat to campus while the investigation continued.

What happened at Lincoln University PA

The shooting unfolded around 9:30 p.m. as students, alumni, and visitors gathered following the day’s football game. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as people fled in multiple directions from the area near the International Cultural Center. Responders from campus police, local departments, and county agencies converged quickly, securing the perimeter and treating the injured before transporting victims to regional hospitals.

Lincoln University—located in Lower Oxford Township, Chester County—is a historically Black university with deep roots in Pennsylvania and the broader mid-Atlantic academic community. Homecoming weekend typically draws significant crowds, including returning alumni and families, expanding the footprint of campus events and complicating crowd management.

The investigation and what officials are saying

The Chester County District Attorney’s Office is leading the investigation alongside campus police and state and federal partners. Early Sunday briefings emphasized several points:

• Casualties: 1 deceased, 6 wounded by gunfire; officials also noted additional minor injuries consistent with people fleeing the scene.

• Detention: One individual was detained at the scene with a firearm; charges had not been finalized as of the latest update.

• Motive and suspects: Authorities are exploring the possibility of multiple shooters. The incident does not appear to be a preplanned, large-scale attack, based on initial assessments.

• Public safety: There is no active threat to the campus community, but the area around the International Cultural Center remains an active crime scene while evidence technicians work.

Investigators are seeking cell phone videos, photos, and eyewitness accounts from anyone who attended the Homecoming events near the International Cultural Center on Saturday evening. Tips can be provided to Lincoln University Police or the Chester County tip line; callers may remain anonymous.

Impact on Lincoln University and Chester County

Sunday’s focus for Lincoln University centered on community support and operational continuity:

• Counseling and support: The university is coordinating counseling and mental health services for students, staff, and alumni affected by the tragedy.

• Campus operations: Security presence is heightened, with restricted access around the incident site. Any updates to class schedules or campus events will be communicated through university channels.

• Community response: Leaders in Chester County, PA expressed condolences and pledged resources to the investigation, underscoring the county’s coordination with university officials.

Timeline snapshot

• ~9:30 p.m., Sat., Oct. 25: Gunfire reported near the International Cultural Center during Homecoming festivities.

• Immediately after: Law enforcement secures the area; multiple victims transported for treatment.

• Late night into Sunday morning: Scene processing begins; one individual detained; investigators canvass for witnesses and video.

• Sunday morning, Oct. 26: Officials confirm 1 dead, 6 wounded, no continuing threat, and an active, multi-agency investigation.

What’s next

The coming days will likely bring clarity on suspect identities, charges, and victim conditions as hospitals and investigators release verified updates. Expect enhanced patrols and visible security on campus while events are reassessed. University leaders will continue outreach to students and families, with Chester County agencies providing victim assistance and trauma support.

For residents and visitors in Chester County, Pennsylvania, authorities ask the public to avoid the cordoned area while technicians complete forensic work and to share any footage or information from the Homecoming gathering. For the Lincoln University community, the priority is twofold: care for those affected and cooperation with investigators to ensure a thorough, fact-based path to accountability.