In a devastating incident on Wednesday afternoon, three lives were tragically lost, and another individual was wounded in a shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) campus. The assailant, identified as a white male in his sixties and reportedly a former college professor, was promptly neutralized by law enforcement officers who responded swiftly to the scene. Authorities assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Law enforcement sources revealed that the gunman, named Anthony “Tony” Polito, had previously taught in Georgia and North Carolina. While his motive remains unknown, sources suggest that Polito recently applied for a job at UNLV but was unsuccessful. There may also be a connection between Polito and someone working on the campus.
Sheriff Kevin McMahill confirmed the suspect’s identity but refrained from releasing the name until the victims’ families are informed. The shooting originated on the fourth floor of Beam Hall, leading to the tragic loss of three lives and one person sustaining a gunshot wound. Fortunately, the wounded individual is reported to be in stable condition.
During a news conference, McMahill expressed gratitude for the rapid response of law enforcement, highlighting that officers engaged in armed contact with the assailant within minutes. He disclosed that two police officers sustained minor injuries while searching for additional victims on the campus.
Sunrise Hospital Trauma Center received three patients from the shooting, as confirmed by trauma medical director Chris Fisher. A reunification center was established for families struggling to contact their loved ones at the campus’s North Hall.
The FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are collaborating with local authorities to investigate the incident. UNLV will remain closed for the week, with further decisions on reopening to be determined.
In response to the tragedy, President Biden issued a statement calling for urgent measures to address the pervasive issue of gun violence. Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman expressed her sorrow, labeling the news as “tragic and heartbreaking.” University president Brian Sandoval conveyed his deepest sympathies, describing the day as “unimaginably sad and shocking” for the entire state. As investigations continue, the UNLV community and the nation grapple with the aftermath of this senseless act.
MOST KEY POINTS
Three Lives Lost:
A tragic shooting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) campus claimed the lives of three individuals on Wednesday afternoon.
Swift Police Response:
Law enforcement responded promptly, neutralizing the suspect, a white male in his sixties identified as Anthony “Tony” Polito, a former college professor.
Ongoing Threat:
Authorities assured the community that there is no ongoing threat following the suspect’s elimination.
Unknown Motive:
The motive behind the shooting remains unknown, leaving investigators and the public seeking answers.
Fourth-Floor Origin:
The shooting originated on the fourth floor of Beam Hall, leading to casualties and injuries.
Victim’s Identity Withheld:
The suspect’s identity, Anthony “Tony” Polito, was disclosed by law enforcement, but his name was withheld until families of the victims were notified.
Wounded Individual Stable:
One person sustained a gunshot wound and is reported to be in stable condition.
Police Injuries:
Two police officers incurred minor injuries while searching for potential victims on the campus.
Collaboration in Investigation:
The FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are collaborating with local authorities to investigate the incident.
Campus Closure:
UNLV will remain closed for the week, with future decisions on reopening pending further assessment of the situation.