TUSKEGEE, Ala. — Tuskegee University is enacting stricter security measures following a deadly shooting at its homecoming celebration over the weekend. The tragic incident left one dead and 16 injured, prompting the institution to limit campus access exclusively to students, faculty, and staff members.
During a press briefing, University President Dr. Mark A. Brown announced the implementation of a mandatory ID policy requiring all individuals on campus to display university IDs at all times. Those needing an ID can obtain one at the Public Safety building. Additionally, the university has made changes to its security leadership, dismissing the former security chief and appointing a new one.
Eighteen-year-old La’Tavion Johnson from Troy was identified by the Macon County coroner as the fatality in the Saturday shooting. While Johnson was not affiliated with the university, many of the injured were students.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) reported that Jaquez Myrick, a 25-year-old from Montgomery, has been arrested and federally charged with the illegal possession of a machine gun. According to ALEA, Myrick was apprehended with a handgun equipped with a machine gun conversion device. Following the incident, which was reported at approximately 1:40 a.m. on Nov. 10, victims were swiftly transported to local hospitals for medical attention.
An official statement from Tuskegee University clarified that although Johnson was not a student, several students were among those injured. This incident has deeply shaken the university community, leading to the cancellation of all classes on Monday, Nov. 11.
In a show of solidarity, Miles College, which competed against Tuskegee in their homecoming football game, expressed condolences and support. “Today, our hearts are with the Tuskegee family as they face the tragic aftermath of the recent shooting on campus. We extend our deepest condolences to those impacted and pray for healing and justice,” stated a social media post from Miles College.
As the university grapples with the aftermath of this violence, the newly tightened security protocols aim to safeguard students and staff, ensuring a secure and supportive environment for recovery and learning. This incident underlines the critical importance of robust security measures on campus to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This ongoing situation is being monitored closely, and further updates will be made available as new information comes to light. Tuskegee University remains steadfast in its commitment to the safety and well-being of its campus community during this challenging time.