‘Defend yourself’: University of South Carolina warns students of active shooter at Columbia campus

The suspect had been described in the alert sent by the university administration which says a white male suspect, approximately 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall, wearing black pants.

“Defend yourself if you encounter the suspect. Obey public safety officials’ commands,” the alert stated. Though it did not confirm whether any shots were fired by the suspect.

Around 38,000 students attend the university which is situated in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina where 145,000 people reside.

(with inputs from Associated Press)