A suspect has been taken into custody following a shooting at the University of Virginia that left three members of the football team dead.
Authorities identified the suspect as Christopher Darnell Jones Jr., a student at the University of Charlottesville.
Three people were killed and two others were injured when gunfire erupted in the parking lot of a bus full of students returning from Washington, D.C., Sunday night.
University President Jim Ryan said one of the injured students was in critical condition, while the other was in good condition at a local hospital.
Mr. Ryan and local law enforcement officials were holding a late-night news conference when they learned that Jones had been captured.
University Police Chief Timothy Longo Sr. said initially officials had “reason to believe” the shooter was no longer on campus and urged the public to call 911 immediately if they see him or the black SUV he is believed to be driving.
However, after hearing of Jones’ arrest, Sheriff Longo said: “Give me a moment to thank God and breathe a sigh of relief.”
A multi-agency manhunt for Jones, who was described as “armed and dangerous,” was launched and lasted 13 hours, with students on campus warned to shelter in place.
Photo: Associated Press
Jones was listed as a football player on the university’s athletic website in 2018, the first year he didn’t play in any games.
The victim’s name has not been released.
“As of this writing, I am saddened to report that three people have been killed in the shooting; two other victims were injured and are receiving medical attention,” Ryan confirmed.
“This is a message any leader hopes never has to send, and I am appalled by the violence at the University of Virginia. This is a traumatic event for everyone in our community.”
Following the incident, classes at the 25,000-student university were canceled on Monday and support was provided for students and staff.
Photo: Associated Press
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