In a shocking turn of events, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) campus was plunged into chaos and terror as a mass shooting unfolded on Wednesday. Students, who were busy preparing for final exams and going about their daily routines, suddenly found themselves in the midst of a nightmare.
Law student Carlos Eduardo Espina described the disbelief that washed over him when he first heard about the shooting. He, like many others, never thought such a tragedy would occur on their campus. But reality shattered their illusions as three lives were tragically cut short, one person critically injured, and the gunman ultimately taking his own life.
As the news spread, panic gripped the campus. Cesar Marquez, who was helping train student political organizers in the student union, quickly took action. Locking the doors and turning off the lights, he and others barricaded themselves behind tables, desperately hoping for safety. The room fell silent as they anxiously monitored updates on their phones, seeking any information that could guide them through the terrifying ordeal.
Half an hour later, the unthinkable happened. The students received an update that the shooter was in the student union. Fear and uncertainty filled the room as they heard someone attempting to open the door. Unsure if it was the police or the shooter, they braced themselves for the worst. Ready to defend themselves, several individuals stood prepared to rush anyone who entered. Outside, they could hear instructions and screams from an officer, followed by the arrival of a SWAT team. The students were eventually asked to raise their hands, signaling their safety.
Meanwhile, Brandon Sanchez had just finished a class and headed to Frank and Estella Beam Hall for some much-needed sustenance. Little did he know that his routine would be shattered by the sound of gunshots. At first, he and others assumed it was construction noise, but as the bangs continued, a police car pulled up, and chaos ensued. Students ran for cover, seeking refuge wherever they could find it. Sanchez found himself in a USPS store, joining others who were desperately calling their loved ones.
The campus was soon flooded with police, their swift response bringing a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. However, for many students like Sanchez, the sense of safety had been shattered. He vowed not to return until more security measures were implemented, fearing for his well-being.
Jason Whipple Kelly, a law school student, was on his way to take a final exam when the text alert flashed on his phone. The urgency of the situation was evident as sirens blared and police officers sprinted across the campus. Without hesitation, he turned around and ran back to his car, seeking safety.
Jordyn Johnson, a member of the UNLV cheerleading team, was in the middle of practice when a teammate’s Apple Watch delivered a chilling notification. The team quickly locked the gym door and used gym mats to create a makeshift barrier. Huddled together in darkness, they anxiously awaited the arrival of the police, texting their loved ones to express their love and fear.
For Phyllice Johnson-Cooper, the shooting brought back haunting memories. Her son had been in elementary school during the Columbine massacre in 1999. The fear and desperation to be reunited with her daughter, Jordyn, overwhelmed her as she sobbed upon their reunion. The pain of not knowing if your child is safe is a nightmare no parent should endure.
Olivia Stabile, another UNLV student, received a text alert about the shooting while at home. Frantically reaching out to her sister, Bella, who was on campus, she urged her to hide and stay safe. The heart-wrenching exchange of messages filled with love and fear left Olivia devastated. When UNLV sent another text warning of shots fired at the student union, Olivia’s worst fears seemed to be confirmed. It was a moment of sheer terror until she finally heard from her sister, who was safe but in shock.
As the UNLV community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, questions arise about the vulnerability of educational institutions and the need for increased security measures. The echoes of past tragedies, such as the Route 91 shooting, only deepen the wounds inflicted on the Las Vegas community.
In the face of unimaginable horror, the courage and resilience of the survivors shine through. Their accounts serve as a reminder of the strength and unity that can emerge from the darkest of moments. UNLV will undoubtedly come together to heal and support one another, determined to ensure that such a tragedy never repeats itself on their campus.
