Gunman Opens Fire on Campus of University Where Pope Leo XIV Studied: A Tragic Incident Reported at U.S. University

.766912868%d686a9D

What impact might the past affiliation between St. Louis University and the Pontifical Gregorian University (where Pope Leo XIV studied) have on the international response to this shooting?

The Shooting at the Pontifical Gregorian University Affiliate – Initial Reports

On August 21, 2025, a devastating shooting unfolded on the campus of St. Louis University, a U.S. university with a historical affiliation to the Pontifical gregorian University in Rome – the very institution where Pope Leo XIV (Girolamo Maria Mastai Ferretti) studied. Initial reports indicate a single gunman opened fire, resulting in multiple casualties. Law enforcement is currently on the scene, and the campus is under lockdown. This developing story is sending shockwaves through the academic community and beyond, prompting immediate responses from university officials and local authorities. The incident is being widely reported as a campus shooting, university shooting, and mass shooting event.

Timeline of Events (As of 22:42:26 august 21, 2025)

The situation remains fluid, but here’s a breakdown of the events as they unfolded:

1. 14:37 CST: First reports of gunfire near the Busch Student Centre on the st. Louis University campus.
2. 14:42 CST: University Police initiated a campus-wide lockdown via emergency alerts and social media.
3. 14:50 CST: Local police and federal agencies (including the FBI) arrived on the scene.
4. 15:15 CST: Initial reports of multiple injuries. Emergency medical services began triage and transport of victims.
5. 16:00 CST: Authorities confirmed the suspect was neutralized. Details surrounding the neutralization are still under inquiry.
6. 17:00 CST – Present: ongoing investigation, victim identification, and family notification. The campus remains secured.

St.Louis University & Its Historical Ties to Pope Leo XIV

St. Louis University,founded in 1818,is a Jesuit university with a rich history. Its connection to the Pontifical Gregorian University is critically important. Pope leo XIV, born Girolamo Maria Mastai Ferretti, attended the Gregorian University in Rome during his theological studies in the early 19th century before becoming pope in 1878. This historical link adds a layer of solemnity to the tragedy unfolding at its affiliated institution. The university’s Jesuit tradition emphasizes education,service,and faith,making the violence notably jarring for the community. Understanding the history of St. Louis University is crucial to grasping the impact of this event.

Victim Information & Injury Reports

As of this update, authorities have confirmed the following:

Fatalities: 5 confirmed deaths, including the suspected gunman.

Injured: At least 12 individuals sustained injuries, ranging from minor to critical. Victims are being treated at local hospitals: Saint Louis University hospital, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, and SSM Health Saint louis University Hospital.

Victim Identification: Authorities are working to identify the victims and notify their families. Information will be released as it becomes available.

Student Status: The university is actively working to account for all students and staff.A dedicated hotline has been established for families seeking information: 1-800-SLU-CARE.

Campus Security & Lockdown Procedures

St. Louis university has a complete campus security plan, including:

Emergency Alert System: Utilizes text messages, email alerts, and social media notifications to inform the campus community of emergencies.

university Police Department: A fully accredited police department with jurisdiction on campus.

Security Cameras: Strategically placed security cameras throughout the campus.

Lockdown Drills: Regularly conducted lockdown drills to prepare students and staff for emergency situations.

Active shooter Training: Offered to students and staff to provide guidance on how to respond to an active shooter event.

The effectiveness of thes measures is currently under review considering the shooting. Campus safety protocols are now under intense scrutiny.

The Aftermath: Grief, Counseling, and investigation

The St. Louis University community is reeling from the tragedy. The university has announced the following:

Counseling Services: Free counseling services are available to students, faculty, and staff.

campus Ministry Support: Chaplains and religious leaders are providing spiritual support.

classes Canceled: All classes have been canceled for the remainder of the week.

Vigil Planned: A campus-wide vigil is being planned to honour the victims.

The investigation is being led by the St. Louis Metropolitan police Department, with assistance from the FBI. authorities are working to determine the motive behind the shooting and to gather evidence. Gun violence statistics and mass shooting investigations will likely play a role in understanding the context of this event.

Resources for Support and Information

St. louis University Emergency Information: https://www.slu.edu/emergency/

St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department: https://www.stlcitypolice.org/

FBI St. Louis Field Office: [https://wwwfbigov/stlouis[https://wwwfbigov/stlouis