The Michigan State University community is reeling after a gunman opened fire on campus, killing three students and injuring five more. The tragic event unfolded on the evening of February 13th, leaving the campus and the nation grappling for answers.
A Night of Terror: Gunman Opens Fire in Berkey Hall and MSU Union
At approximately 8:30 p.m., gunshots erupted inside Berkey Hall, sending shockwaves through the campus. Students and staff, caught off guard, scrambled for safety as the sound of gunfire echoed through the halls. A flood of 9-1-1 calls alerted authorities to the unfolding crisis. Police descended upon Berkey Hall within minutes, encountering a scene of chaos and terror. Inside the building, they found multiple students suffering from gunshot wounds. Two victims tragically lost their lives in Berkey Hall.
The gunman, later identified as 43-year-old Anthony McRae, then moved to the MSU Union, a popular gathering spot for students. First responders arriving at the Union discovered another harrowing scene with additional victims.
Victims Identified as MSU Students, Community Mourns
The three students killed in the shooting have been identified as sophomore Brian Fraser and junior Alexandria Verner. Out of respect for the families, the name of the third victim has not yet been released. All five surviving victims remain hospitalized in critical condition, their fates hanging in the balance.
Frantic Search Leads to Suspect in Lansing
As first responders rushed to aid the injured and secure the campus, investigators worked tirelessly to piece together the events leading to the shooting. Campus security footage provided a crucial lead, capturing images of the suspect. Acting swiftly, authorities released the images to the public, seeking help in identifying and locating the individual.
The MSU community, united in grief and fear, sprang into action. Students, staff, and faculty sheltered in place for hours, following the emergency notifications issued by the university. The quick response of the community, heeding the shelter-in-place orders, was instrumental in allowing law enforcement to secure the campus.
The break in the case came from a vigilant citizen. A tip from the public, prompted by the released images, led law enforcement to a residence in Lansing, Michigan. As officers approached the home, the suspect, Anthony McRae, turned the gun on himself, ending his own life.
Motive Remains Elusive as Investigation Continues
Investigators are working relentlessly to determine the motive behind this senseless act of violence. Early findings indicate that McRae had no known affiliation with Michigan State University. He was not a student, faculty member, or employee.
Police searched McRae’s residence, where his father, Michael McRae, confirmed that officers spent hours examining his son’s belongings. While authorities have not released details about what was recovered from the home, they emphasize that the investigation is ongoing.
The Michigan State University shooting is a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of gun violence plaguing the nation. As the community mourns the loss of young lives, the search for answers continues, fueled by the hope of preventing such tragedies from occurring in the future.
