Two arrested after five people shot near Howard University, D.C.

Five individuals were shot on the evening of October 24 near Howard University in Washington, D.C., as the school celebrated its 101st homecoming weekend.

Police Chief Pamela Smith told reporters that three men, one woman, and a teenage boy were discovered with gunshot wounds around 8:20 p.m. in the 600 block of Howard Place NW, close to the university’s architecture building. She confirmed that none of those injured were students at Howard University.

Two suspects have been taken into custody, and three firearms were recovered near the scene. The five victims were transported to local hospitals with injuries described as non-life-threatening.

Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting. Police are reviewing nearby surveillance footage to gather more information.

Chief Smith emphasised the broader issue of gun violence in the city, saying: “Whether they’re young people or adults with guns, we need folks to put these guns down in our city. What we do know is that this is Howard’s homecoming, and most of the homecoming festivities around our cities are joyous occasions for our families to come out and enjoy a good time.”

At the time of the shooting, the university was hosting a welcome reception for alumni just a block away from the incident.

“We’re not going to tolerate individuals coming into our cities with firearms and don’t think for one second that we’re not going to look for you and search for you and find you. And when we do, we will hold you accountable,” Smith added.

In response to the incident, police have closed additional streets to motorists and pedestrians in the surrounding area.

Authorities have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community as the investigation continues.

By Tamilla Hasanova