Shooting at WIU’s Thompson Hall; Classes Canceled Wednesday at Macomb & QC Campuses

At approximately 10:38 p.m. Sept. 15, the Western Illinois University Office of Public Safety was notified of a student who had been shot in Thompson Hall. At the same time, a fire alarm pull station was activated in Thompson, and the building was evacuated.

A male resident of Thompson was shot by a person known to him, who then fled the scene. The incident was related to a roommate dispute, and police believe this is an isolated incident. Police have identified the suspect as freshman Kavion Poplous, 18. He is considered armed and dangerous. A search for the suspect is underway. Individuals with information should call 9-1-1 immediately or contact Macomb Area Crimestoppers (800) 222-TIPS or (309) 836-2222 or https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?IDh6# .

The victim was transported to McDonough District Hospital and transferred to another hospital. His condition is unknown.

Residents of Thompson Hall have been relocated. Updates will be posted at wiu.edu.

All classes scheduled at Western Illinois University Wednesday, Sept. 16 have been canceled. This includes online and in-person classes at both the Macomb and Moline campuses, as well as extension classes.