DOVER, Del. — An 18-year-old was fatally shot in the early hours of Sunday on the campus of Delaware State University, prompting a police investigation and the offering of a reward for information leading to an arrest in the case, authorities said.
City of Dover Chief of Police Thomas Johnson, Jr. expressed his shock and distress over the tragic incident, emphasizing the impact of such violence on an educational institution like the university.
The victim, identified by Dover Police as Camay Mitchell DeSilva from Wilmington, Delaware, was found with gunshot wounds to the upper body near the Warren Franklin Residential Hall on Sunday, police said. She was rushed to Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus, where she succumbed to her injuries.
Investigators indicated that DeSilva was an innocent bystander and not involved in any altercation that may have led to the shooting. Despite efforts to locate a suspect, no further details were provided by authorities on the identity of the shooter.
Delaware State University officials revealed that DeSilva and another woman were on campus visiting someone at the time of the incident. The gunman, who remains at large, was last seen fleeing towards College Road, according to university officials.
In response to the tragedy, police have intensified patrols in and around the campus, urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. The National Nonprofit organization is offering a reward for details that could lead to an arrest.
Emotions ran high on campus as students reflected on the senseless violence that cut short a young life. Counseling services were made available for those affected by the incident as the university canceled classes and events on Monday.
Delaware State University President Tony Allen expressed condolences to the victim’s family and emphasized the collaboration between university police and local authorities in seeking justice for the crime. As the community grieves the loss, plans are underway for a forum to provide updates and support to students, faculty, and parents impacted by the tragedy.