Replica Gun Sparks Lockdown at UMass Lowell

Daniel Griffin

Opinion Editor

Just a few weeks ago, and what felt like minutes into the fall 2025 semester, students of the University of Massachusetts Lowell faced some extremely alarming circumstances in bright daylight. An armed individual was reported on UMass Lowell’s campus around 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 4, 2025. The reported threat to this Massachusetts University’s campus would be handled quickly and rapidly.

 Immediately notifying authorities across all divisions of law enforcement, from Massachusetts State Police, UMass Lowell Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, this high-volume response helped to quickly tame the threat. Holding students in a shelter-in-place in all dorms, recreational facilities, and academic buildings, this efficient effort would allow authorities to identify the suspect rapidly.

 Following an investigation into the man’s whereabouts and potential reasons for even being close to the campus, it was revealed that it was a juvenile with an airsoft replica gun, according to ABC News. There were no shots fired, and nobody was injured.

Lowell Police Superintendent Greg Hudon said regarding the incident, “The safety of this city, and its residents and visitors, is our top priority…and the extensive response of personnel and assets by this department and our law enforcement partners was a testament to that commitment,” according to Western Mass News. Hudon extended his thanks to the officers for their quick response and for ensuring the safety of the residents of the affected neighborhood.

After the investigation found that no shots were fired and that the firearm was an airsoft gun replica, Hudon emphasized that, regardless, the Lowell Police Department always utilizes all available resources until it is ensured that everyone is safe.

After an alarming day in Lowell, all individuals on campus are assured to be safe following the incident. It marks a day that will likely be remembered by students and faculty for years to come.