LEXINGTON, Va. (WDBJ) – The Virginia Military Institute confirmed there is no evidence of gunshots fired after reports of an armed individual in the area.
VMI reported an object was used to make a noise outside of a barracks that sounded similar to gunfire, prompting calls to emergency responders. That information was released 12:30 a.m. Wednesday following an active investigation.
❗UPDATE AS OF JULY 15 12:30AM — After an active investigation with multiple agencies, it was determined that an object was used to make a noise outside of barracks that sounded similar to gunfire which led to calls to police. There is no evidence of gunshots fired. All students…
— Virginia Military Institute (@VMI1839) July 15, 2026
All students who were on post at the time of the incident are being accounted for, according to VMI.
Washington & Lee University lifted its shelter in place for its campus. “Law enforcement has determined the report of shots fired was unfounded. At this time, there is no ongoing threat to the community,” W&L wrote on its social media.
wlu Alert: Shelter in place has been lifted. Law enforcement has determined the report of shots fired was unfounded. At this time, there is no ongoing threat to the community. See https://t.co/3NrcI88kcr for further updates.
— Washington and Lee University (@wlunews) July 15, 2026
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An armed individual has been reported at Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Tuesday, July 14, according to VMI.
VMI says law is enforcement is on scene, and students have been contacted by officials.
A Facebook post from Washington and Lee says to seek safe shelter immediately or avoid campus until further notice.
Stay with WDBJ7 for updates.
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