UPDATE: A weapon linked to the mass shooting at Lincoln University has been confirmed as a ballistic match to a cartridge casing found at the scene. Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe announced this urgent development during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, just days after the tragic incident that left one dead and six injured.
The weapon, a .38 caliber semi-automatic firearm, was discovered in the possession of Zecqueous Morgan-Thompson, 21, of Wilmington, Delaware, on the night of the shooting during a post-football game Homecoming celebration at Lincoln. Authorities have confirmed that Morgan-Thompson is neither a student nor an alumnus of Lincoln University.
During the press briefing, de Barrena-Sarobe stated, “We’ve said from the beginning, we are operating as if there are multiple shooters in this investigation.” This assertion raises significant concerns as the community grapples with the aftermath of the violence.
Gunfire erupted at the International Cultural Center, leaving seven people struck by bullets, including Jujuan Jeffers, 25, who tragically died from a gunshot wound to the head. The DA confirmed that Jeffers was also not affiliated with the university.
The other victims, aged between 20 and 25, include one current Lincoln student and one alumnus, all of whom are expected to survive. However, the investigation is ongoing, and officials have not yet determined if the fired .380 caliber ammunition hit any of the victims.
In response to the severity of the charges, the Honorable Mackenzie Smith increased Morgan-Thompson’s bail from $25,000 to $1 million. “Like all defendants, he is innocent until proven guilty,” de Barrena-Sarobe emphasized.
The DA expressed his commitment to public safety, stating, “Our duty is to protect the public and to responsibly pursue justice.” He urged the community to assist investigators by sharing any video footage from the night of the shooting, stressing that even seemingly insignificant videos could provide crucial evidence. Tipsters can call 1-800-CALL-FBI to report information.
De Barrena-Sarobe noted there were thousands of attendees at Lincoln’s Homecoming event when the shots rang out, leading to a complex crime scene. Law enforcement agencies have deployed extensive resources, including local police, state troopers, and the FBI, to follow up on every lead in this fluid investigation.
“We are going to continue to move forward in this investigation,” de Barrena-Sarobe said, acknowledging the community’s vital role in providing information.
Classes at Lincoln University are set to resume on Wednesday, as officials reassured students and faculty that there is currently no ongoing threat to the campus. “My message to the world is that Lincoln University will stand strong,” said Osoname Fortune Omonagbe, a recent graduate.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities remain focused on restoring a sense of security to the university community. The DA underscored the importance of community support in bringing justice to the victims of this senseless act of violence.
While the investigation continues, there are no additional charges against Morgan-Thompson at this time. Officials are determined to track down all individuals involved in the incident, which they believe was not a planned mass casualty event.
With the investigation ongoing and community support critical, authorities encourage anyone with information to step forward. “This tragedy will not define us, but rather deepen our commitment to fostering peace and togetherness,” Omonagbe stated, highlighting the resilience of the Lincoln University community.
