10/26/2026
Dear VUU Community,
Virginia Union University is more than a place to learn and work. For many of our students, it is home. We understand that the recent incidents involving gunfire have caused concern among students, families, faculty and staff. We take these incidents seriously and recognize that feeling safe on campus is essential to your well-being and ability to thrive.
As Homecoming events concluded on Saturday, October 24, 2026, an incident involving gunfire occurred on campus, leaving two individuals with injuries that police described as non-life-threatening. Our thoughts remain with those affected, including everyone who witnessed or was unsettled by the incident.
Richmond Police have arrested Avantae Brooks, 22, of Richmond, and charged him with attempted murder and use of a fi***rm in the commission of a felony. Detectives reviewed campus security footage and interviewed witnesses, determining that the incident followed a confrontation among several individuals. Police reported that Brooks accidentally shot himself during the incident.
Police have stated that there is no threat to the campus or surrounding community at this time. We remain attentive to your concerns and committed to taking meaningful steps to support campus safety.
Security checks have been increased, and additional security personnel have been deployed across campus. Academic buildings and campus gates will continue to be checked and secured in coordination with evening classes and authorized campus activities. Officers will conduct checks of residence halls, with additional support from roving security personnel across the campus.
As you see officers throughout campus, please cooperate with security checks and follow their directions. Their presence supports the safety of everyone who calls VUU home, attends classes, works here or visits our campus.
Each of us also has a role in caring for our community. We ask that you:
-See Something, Say Something. If you notice suspicious activity or have a safety concern, promptly report it to campus police. Call 911 in an emergency.
-Follow directions from law enforcement and campus security personnel.
-Monitor University email and the campus safety app for official updates and guidance.
-Remain aware of your surroundings and share only verified information.
To our students, your concerns matter, and we encourage you to speak with campus police, residence life staff, or a trusted University staff member if you need assistance or support.
Thank you for looking out for yourselves and one another. We will continue communicating with you and working to maintain a campus where our community can live, learn, and work with confidence.