Airsoft Rifle Prompts UMass Lowell Campus Lockdown, Juvenile Identified

LOWELL, Mass. – A campus-wide lockdown at the University of Massachusetts Lowell on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, was initiated by the sighting of a person with what appeared to be a long gun, later confirmed by authorities to be an airsoft replica weapon. The incident, which led to a massive law enforcement response, concluded with the identification of a teenage boy as the individual responsible. No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported during the hours-long scare.

The incident began around 2:30 p.m. when UMass Lowell issued an alert regarding a "weapons incident" near the Riverview Suites on the South Campus. A video circulating on social media appeared to show an individual walking with a rifle-style gun, prompting immediate concern across the university community. According to the initial police description, shared via social media by AZ Intel, "The suspect is an Asian male, wearing a gray or white sweatshirt and black shorts, holding a long weapon."

The report triggered an extensive multi-agency response, involving UMass Lowell Police, Lowell Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). K-9 units and drones were also deployed in the search for the individual, as students and staff were instructed to shelter in place. All classes and campus events were canceled for the remainder of the day.

On Thursday, September 4, the Lowell Police Department announced that a juvenile male had been identified as the person who prompted the lockdown. Authorities confirmed that the weapon recovered was an "airsoft replica weapon," which closely resembles a real firearm. Police did not immediately disclose whether the juvenile would face any charges in connection with the incident.

Lowell Police Superintendent Greg Hudon emphasized the commitment to public safety, stating, "While the reported firearm in this case was ultimately determined to be an airsoft gun, our community can be certain that... the Lowell Police Department will always utilize all available resources until the safety of all involved is assured." UMass Lowell Chancellor Julie Chen thanked emergency personnel and encouraged students to attend classes on Thursday, noting that trauma specialists and comfort dogs would be available on campus.

The university resumed normal operations on Thursday, with classes proceeding as scheduled. UMass Lowell also highlighted mental health resources available to students, faculty, and staff impacted by the distressing event. The incident underscores the heightened sensitivity surrounding perceived threats on college campuses, particularly with the widespread availability of realistic replica firearms.