Juvenile Detains Replica Gun After Campus Lockdown

A juvenile has been identified as the individual responsible for prompting a lockdown at the University of Massachusetts Lowell on the first day of classes. Police confirmed he was carrying an airsoft replica firearm, not a real weapon.

The minor, whose name remains undisclosed due to age, was seen on campus brandishing what appeared to be a long firearm, mimicking behavior associated with a threat of violence. Video footage recorded by students sheltered in place shows the youth appearing to prepare for an attack.

Reports emerged around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, leading to the swift deployment of law enforcement, including FBI agents. Authorities utilized drones, K9 units, and aerial support to search the campus thoroughly. All classes and events were canceled for the remainder of the day.

Within about two hours, the lockdown was lifted after authorities confirmed the suspect was no longer nearby. Lowell police stated that no shots were fired during the incident, and the situation was not classified as an active shooter threat.

The suspect was initially described as a “5’5 Asian male” wearing a gray or white sweatshirt and black shorts, carrying what many thought to be an AR-15 rifle. Video footage captured by students shows the individual walking on campus with what appears to be a replica gun.

While the individual was eventually detained, law enforcement has not disclosed whether the juvenile faces criminal charges related to the false threat. The incident raised concerns as it followed similar false shooter reports at other colleges during recent move-in weekends.

Located about 45 minutes north of Boston and home to roughly 12,000 students, UMass Lowell responded swiftly to ensure campus safety. Authorities emphasized their commitment to protecting the community with all available resources.