Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early Sunday morning at Delaware State University (DSU) in Dover. The incident, which took place around 1:40 a.m. near the Warren Franklin Residential Hall’s northend underpass, led to the death of an 18-year-old female from Wilmington who, officials say, was not a student at the university.
DSU Police responded to initial reports of gunfire and upon arrival, discovered the victim with a gunshot wound to her upper body. According to radio traffic, rescue crews were dispatched at 2:12 a.m., and arrived at the scene minutes later. The victim was subsequently transported to Bayhealth Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.
The deceased woman was reportedly visiting a student at the time of the incident, accompanied by another non-student officials said Sunday. Following the shooting, suspects were seen fleeing toward College Road, but no detailed descriptions have been provided.
The Dover Police Department is actively assisting DSU Police in the homicide investigation. DSU has increased police patrols and closed the campus for the day, canceling all scheduled events. Counseling services are being offered to students and staff at the Tubman Laws Hall housing office.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Dover Police Department at (302) 736-7130. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Delaware Crime Stoppers by calling 800-TIP-3333 or visiting delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.
The Dover Police Department’s Victim Services Unit has been made available to assist those affected according to a statement issued by the agency.