US Naval Academy on lockdown after reports of shooting on 24th anniversary of 9/11; one person injured, students forced to take shelter

Twenty-four years after the September 11 attacks, the US Naval Academy found itself under lockdown after reports of threats on campus. The US Naval Academy was placed on lockdown Thursday evening(September 11) after reports of threats to the campus, prompting a large police and military response at the institution’s Annapolis grounds, officials said.

According to the New York Times website, an academy midshipman who was standing watch sent an email to students warning them to “get inside and lock your door right now. Not a drill. Get inside and lock your door.” Additionally, according to the Washington Times website, at least one person was injured in a reported shooting.

The Naval Academy in Annapolis was coordinating with local law enforcement to address the reported threats, Lt. Naweed Lemar, a spokesperson for the base, said.


“The base has been placed on lockdown out of an abundance of caution,” Lemar added. “This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as they become available.”

Gunfire reports under review

Gunshots were heard in Bancroft Hall, the massive dormitory that houses more than 1600 Brigade of Midshipmen. Academy officials have not publicly released casualty information.

Videos circulating on social media appeared to show a medevac helicopter landing on campus, but as of now, their authenticity remains unverified. Governor Wes Moore's office quickly dealt with the situation."In working with local, state, and federal law enforcement authorities, there is currently no credible threat to the Naval Academy. Please contact their public affairs office for further questions,” the governor's office said in a statement, reported WBAL TV.

The Department of Defense confirmed it was aware of the lockdown but did not provide additional details. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and Maryland State Police joined Annapolis police in responding to the incident, officials said. Officials urged patience as they worked to reconcile conflicting reports.