A significant police presence has descended upon the University of Massachusetts in Boston following reports of gunfire on campus. Students and staff were seen fleeing the area after the sound of gunshots was heard at the Dorchester campus. The Boston Police Department confirmed the incident, which occurred near a residence hall in the East Building around 3.45pm local time, close to Morrissey Boulevard.

In response to the situation, UMass Boston issued alerts to students, warning of an ongoing 'public safety threat'. SWAT teams were deployed to the dormitory, and individuals were advised to steer clear of the vicinity.

As the investigation unfolded, Boston police stated that there was no immediate confirmation of gunfire or individuals armed on campus. Initial reports indicated an incident at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, but subsequent updates clarified that the threat was associated with the residence hall.

The incident comes amid a wave of university alerts across the United States, following the recent fatal shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. In the wake of Kirk's death, seven universities were placed on lockdown due to "terroristic threats" targeting their campuses, leading to closures in states including Virginia, Alabama, Louisiana, New Jersey, Florida, and Georgia.

As a precaution, UMass Boston announced that all classes and activities for the evening were cancelled while the police investigation continued. The Massachusetts State Police confirmed their involvement, stating they would coordinate with campus authorities to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.