USF Shooting Suspected on Tampa Campus Library Evacuation

TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 30, 2025 - University of South Florida (USF) Tampa campus was swept by an active-shooter alert Saturday afternoon after reports of gunfire inside the campus library prompted an immediate evacuation and heavy law-enforcement response.

According to multiple student eyewitnesses, police officers armed with long guns converged on the library building shortly after social-media posts indicated shots had been fired. One student described being ushered out of the library “with police pointing guns up the stairs,” while another reported seeing a police helicopter circling overhead as dozens of squad cars lined nearby streets.

USF officials have not yet released a formal statement confirming that shots were fired or providing details about any injuries or suspects. Tampa Police Department likewise declined to comment on the situation beyond acknowledging a “heightened police presence” on campus. Videos shared by students show flashing red-and-blue lights and officers guarding library entrances, but no official information on casualties or arrests has been made available.

The university’s emergency notification system, AlertUSF, was activated to instruct students and staff to shelter in place until law-enforcement secured the perimeter. Campus buildings outside the library remained open, but many classes were delayed or canceled as officers conducted searches of adjacent facilities. USF President Rhea Law later advised the community via email to remain vigilant and utilize on-campus counseling resources for anyone affected by the unfolding events.

As of press time, Tampa Police and USF Campus Police continue to investigate the incident. Students and faculty have been advised to monitor official USF communications for updates. No motive or suspect description has been released.