Naval Academy on Lockdown After Accidental Shooting and Threats
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| Naval Academy Shooting |
Annapolis, MD — September 11, 2025
The U.S. Naval Academy was placed under lockdown Thursday evening following an accidental shooting that injured a Midshipman and a series of threats that heightened security concerns across Maryland.
According to state officials, the incident occurred during a building-clearing exercise at the academy. A Midshipman was wounded in what authorities believe was an accidental discharge. The injured individual was airlifted to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center and was reported to be in stable condition later that night.
U.S. Representative Sarah Elfreth, who serves on the Naval Academy Board of Visitors, praised the swift response of emergency personnel and emphasized that the safety of Midshipmen remains her top priority.
Security forces quickly sealed off the academy’s entrances, confirming the lockdown around 6:21 p.m. Helicopters were seen landing on the grounds, and residents were advised to avoid the area. The lockdown remained in effect as of 9 p.m.
A scheduled women’s soccer match between Navy and St. Mary’s College of California was canceled, and spectators were turned away. Meanwhile, food delivery services piled up at the gates, with some students reportedly breaking lockdown protocols to retrieve their orders.
The shooting came just one day after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, fueling fears of escalating political violence. On Thursday, Maryland House Speaker Adrienne Jones and Senate President Bill Ferguson reported receiving bomb threats at their homes. Jones later confirmed the threat was deemed non-credible.
Additionally, multiple historically Black colleges and universities across the country were placed on lockdown following hoax threat calls, according to the FBI.
Elfreth expressed deep concern over the recent wave of violence and threats, stating, “Our nation has been broken by gun violence and political violence.”
Naval Support Activity Annapolis is leading the investigation into the shooting. The Anne Arundel County Fire Department dispatched mutual aid units to assist, though details on their involvement remain limited.
This marks the second lockdown at the Naval Academy this year. A similar incident occurred in January following bomb threats to the North Severn Complex, which were later deemed non-credible.
