Search for gunman at Fairleigh Dickinson University ends after four hours

Florham Park

By: Richard L. Smith

Shortly before 3 a.m. Thursday, Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison announced that police had ended a four-hour search for a potential gunman.

Florham Park Police ordered a shelter in place late Wednesday night at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Florham Campus as police searched for a person potentially armed with a firearm.

Students and staff were encouraged to stay indoors and away from windows and doors.

“If you are outside, take shelter immediately,” read an urgent message shared on the university’s social media platforms around 11:30 p.m.

Authorities were actively searching the area near campus for a suspect believed to be in possession of a gun.

Initial reports described the person as a 19-year-old man driving a blue 2011 Honda Accord with New Jersey registration B83UMF. The person is reportedly wanted in connection with threats made at the university, which the authorities categorized as “terrorist”.

As a precaution, the university announced that both its Florham and Metropolitan campuses would transition to remote operations on Thursday.

All on-campus activities at the Florham Campus were canceled, although essential personnel were expected to remain on site.

The situation prompted a quick and coordinated response from local law enforcement, including the Florham Park Police Department.

Officials have not yet released additional details about the suspect or confirmed whether the person has been apprehended.

University officials stressed their commitment to student and staff safety and advised the community to remain vigilant while the investigation continues.