WASHINGTON, D.C.
Chaos unfolded Friday night near the campus of Howard University, where at least four people were shot during a frightening outbreak of gunfire on Georgia Avenue NW — just steps away from the university’s homecoming festivities.

Police say the shooting happened around 10:30 p.m. in the 2300 block of Georgia Avenue, an area packed with students and alumni celebrating one of D.C.’s biggest annual college events.

Authorities confirmed that four victims were transported to local hospitals. One remains in critical condition, another in serious condition, and two others are expected to recover.

Witnesses described hearing a rapid burst of gunfire and people running in panic as officers flooded the area. One student told FOX 5 DC, “We were just dancing, and then everyone started screaming. It felt like chaos in seconds.”

Police have not yet identified any suspects or released a motive, but they believe the incident may have occurred near an off-campus gathering connected to the festivities.

As of early Saturday morning, no arrests had been made. Georgia Avenue and surrounding streets were closed for hours as investigators collected evidence and reviewed surveillance footage.

Howard University officials released a short statement urging calm and confirming that none of the ongoing official homecoming events were directly impacted, though all remaining activities will undergo additional security review.

This remains a developing story — authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Metropolitan Police Department immediately.