LUMBERTON, N.C. – A former student of UNC Pembroke was tragically killed in a shooting at an apartment complex near the university campus. The victim, identified as Khalil Alford, had plans to return to the university in the fall, but his life was cut short in the violent incident.
Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Alford, stating, “It pains me deeply to know this opportunity, among many others, has been tragically cut short.” The university’s Student Government Association has organized a vigil in honor of Alford, and university leaders have been meeting with students to address safety concerns following the deadly shooting.
The UNC Pembroke campus was put on lockdown after reports of shots fired near the campus, but officials later gave the all-clear. Although shell casings were found at the scene of the shooting, no shooter was located. Tragically, Alford was found at a second incident off campus and later died at the hospital.
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing, with the university president calling it an “isolated incident.” In response to the tragedy, a mobile crisis unit will be available on campus to provide support to the university community. The university leaders are committed to improving campus safety procedures and ensuring the well-being of their students.
The loss of Khalil Alford serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing and preventing violence within and around university campuses. As the community mourns this tragic loss, efforts to support the victim’s family and improve campus safety continue.