NCCU student arrested in connection to social media threat that led to classes being canceled

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- A student at North Carolina Central University has been arrested in connection with a threat to the school earlier Monday.

The university canceled evening classes and other activities after the threat. NCCU did not immediately identify the student.

The NCCU Police Department got a call about 3:50 p.m. Monday reporting a social media post that indicated a threat to campus.

Campus Police has determined that there is no credible threat to the campus and has issued an all-clear.

In an email to the NCCU community, the university said "the safety of the NCCU community is our primary concern."

Students were encouraged to be vigilant while authorities investigated

"Everybody took a precaution and took shelter like they were supposed to do," said sophomore Jamaya McKnight.

All classes, activities and events scheduled for Monday night were canceled and the James E. Shepard Library was closed for the rest of the evening. All residence hall visitations were canceled.

While classes were canceled, the campus wasn't locked down and some students continued with their normal routine.

Some students said that unfortunately, they were used to threats of violence.

"We really did think nothing of it because in Durham, like we hear gunshots around campus anyway, like walking to class or nighttime walking from the (cafeteria), like we hear anyway," said sophomore De'Avayn Williams. "So it's just like, we're like kind of immune to, like, we kind of know it's around, so we're used to."

McKnight added that they "hear sirens and see police cars every day."

The two students said they remember past threats toward the university. Those were also not credible but equally frustrating

"For us just to want to come to school and get our education. It is kind of like saddening," Williams said.

Freshman Couswell Gibson agreed.

"I wouldn't say frustrating, more like, disrespectful, you know?" he said. "This is a college, this is where people go to learn."

All classes, activities and events scheduled for Tuesday will be held as planned.

"Students, faculty, and staff are advised that NCCU takes all threats received by the campus very seriously, and will vigorously investigate and prosecute as warranted," the school said.

The university urged anyone who sees something suspicious to please notify Campus Police at (919) 530-6106 or email police@nccu.edu.