MACOMB, IL. (NEWS3) — Western Illinois University released more information about the suspect they believe shot and injured his roommate late Tuesday night.
WIU said police are looking for Kavion Poplous, 18, a freshman at Western. He is considered armed and dangerous.
WIU spokesperson Darcie Shinberger said Poplous shot his roommate around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday after a dispute. Police believe this is an isolated incident. Shinberger said at the same time as the shooting, the fire alarm was activated and the building was evacuated. The male victim, whose name is not being released, was first transported to McDonough District Hospital before being transferred again. There is no word on the extent of his injuries.
Shinberger said the suspect is still on the run but believes there is no threat to the campus community. She said police will release more information soon about the suspect.
WIU officials sent an alert to the campus community around 11:30 p.m. saying a shooter was reported in Thompson Hall.
First responders from Macomb Police Department, McDonough County Sheriff, Macomb Fire Department, Warren County Sheriff, Monmouth Police Department, Hancock County Sheriff and Illinois State Police are on scene outside of Thompson Hall.
Shinberger said it’s undecided if classes will be held Wednesday. Currently, students are not allowed inside Thompson Hall and have been relocated. Students told NEWS3 they were evacuated to Western Hall by police after the shooting.
Police are asking anyone with information to call 911 immediately.
