2 dead in apparent murder-suicide at University of South Carolina

Two people died in a shooting at the University of South Carolina’s public health school on Thursday in an apparent murder-suicide, according to media reports.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division told local reporters that two deaths had been confirmed and police were investigating the incident.

In an online alert, the school, located in Columbia, South Carolina, reported a shooting around 1:15 p.m. and directed people to stay indoors and seek safe shelter.

About an hour later, the university said the threat had been lifted. It noted the school of public health remained closed and people should avoid the area.

Classes in the public health school had been canceled for the day, the university said on Twitter.

The university was otherwise operating under normal conditions, according to its website.

The State newspaper in Columbia reported that all buildings at the university had been locked down and that Governor Nikki Haley cut a news conference short on Thursday because of security concerns.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.