Virginia State University police officer 39-year-old Bruce Foster shot near campus

The Virginia State University police officer, who sustained a gunshot wound near the campus early Sunday morning, is currently in stable condition at the hospital, according to VSU officials.

Identified by VSU Chief of Police David Bragg, the officer is 39-year-old Bruce Foster, serving in the university police force for five years.

Authorities stated that Foster, on duty around 1:30 Sunday morning, responded to what is characterized as a disturbance involving a group of individuals.

While attempting to defuse the situation with one of the people involved in the disturbance, Foster was shot by someone else, according to the police.

Law enforcement is currently in pursuit of multiple suspects, although they suspect only one person discharged a weapon.

Following the Sunday morning shooting, VSU students were under lockdown, which was lifted shortly after noon on the same day.

Chesterfield Police is heading the investigation into the incident, with federal and state law enforcement agencies also playing a role. While the search for those connected to the disturbance and shooting is ongoing, officials have assured that there is no threat to the campus or its immediate vicinity.

Although officials do not suspect that VSU students initiated the disturbance, an investigation is underway to confirm this.

Chief Bragg characterized Foster as an outstanding officer with an unblemished record and noted that he was “a genuinely kind person.”

Grief counselors are accessible for both the VSU police force and any students requiring support. All university activities for the week will proceed as scheduled.

Those with information regarding the disturbance are urged to contact VSU Police at 804-524-5360 or Chesterfield Police at 804-748-1251.