On Thursday, May 6, at 5:58 p.m., Metro Nashville Police responded to a shooting in close proximity to campus, involving a victim not affiliated with Vanderbilt. The shooting occurred behind McDonalds in the Centennial Park area. It was reported that the suspect fled the area in an unknown direction driving a gray Dodge Caravan. The victim was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
This is an active and ongoing investigation.
This security notice is being issued to remind the Vanderbilt community to:
- Stay alert and trust your instincts. If you feel uneasy, leave. Go to a safe location and notify VUPD.
- Avoid isolated or dark areas.
- If strangers approach, maintain a distance and be observant; if they are in a vehicle, get the license plate number.
- Walk with a group of people, not alone.
- Lock doors and windows of your room/building.
- Don’t prop open doors or allow strangers to “piggyback” into the residence hall doors.
- Report any suspicious persons to VUPD. Be prepared to describe the person as best as you can.
- Watch out for each other. If you see someone who looks like they do not belong in the building or area, notify VUPD.
Resources and assistance for students, faculty and staff
- The Vanderbilt University Police Department is available to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need assistance, call (615) 421-1911, or for non-emergency assistance, call (615) 322-2745.
- The Project Safe Center offers a support line 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (615) 322-SAFE (7233).
- The Title IX Office can be reached at (615) 343-9004.
- The University Counseling Center can be reached at (615) 322-2571.