USC Halloween Shooting Leaves Four Injured; Two in Custody
A Halloween party at the University of Southern California got out of control last night and left four injured. Gunfire erupted during the melee and two suspects have been taken into custody.
During the party, an argument broke out between attendees. One pulled out a weapon and fired, hitting the intended target. Three others were also wounded, but only the intended target remains in critical condition, KABC reported. Interestingly enough, none of the victims or shooters attended USC, so it is unknown how they gained admittance into the school-sanctioned party.
"Everyone started running," an eyewitness told the L.A. Times. "I saw a guy who was shot in the leg. He was limping and screaming for his friends to help him. 'I got shot. Can someone give me a ride?' His friends were helping him walk. People were screaming and running away."
"The incident occurred outside a Halloween student party at the Tutor Campus Center. Several officers from the Department of Public Safety were monitoring the area near the party. The officers witnessed the shooting and apprehended two suspects as they fled the scene," the school's website said.
The university has since re-opened, after warning students to "stay away from the area. Seek shelter in a secure location until the incident is resolved. Be aware of your surroundings," in an email sent to faculty and students. But the campus is now fully-functioning and students have returned to their schedules.
The LAPD, in conjunction with USC officials, is working to bring the case to a close. Until then, the suspects will remain in custody. The USC office of Student Affairs has kept students up-to-date with the latest information regarding the situation.
"LAPD concluding investigation on University Park campus. Campus reopened. Classes in session," the latest update stated.