Bridgewater College ‘shooter’ Alexander Wyatt Campbell named for ‘killing 2 officers’ in Virginia & weapons stash seized

THE suspect in the deadly Bridgewater College College shooting has been named and charged with capital murder.

The suspect has been identified as 27-year-old Alexander Wyatt Campbell of Ashland, who has been taken into custody.

Two campus officers, John Painter and JJ Jefferson were killed in the shooting, according to an email sent to students and staff.

“These officers were close friends, known to many of us as the 'dynamic duo.' John was JJ's best man in his wedding this year. They were beloved by students, faculty and staff. I hurt for their families and loved ones, as I know we all do,” Bridgewater College President David Bushman said in the email

Bridgewater College issued a warning on their social media page shortly after 1.30pm on Tuesday following reports of an active shooter.

Bridgewater College warned students on , saying: "This is not a test."

At the time of the lockdown, one social media user who appeared to be at the scene claimed that there were victims, potentially including a campus police officer.

Students were told not to be alarmed by the police presence on campus and in buildings as the shelter in place order was in action.

Despite the lockdown being lifted, people are being urged to avoid the college and the area around it.

"I have been briefed on the situation at Bridgewater College. The shooter is in custody and state and local police are on the scene," said Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin at the time.

"I will continue to monitor the situation in conjunction with law enforcement."

Bushman called the incident “a sad and dark day for Bridgewater College.”

“I know we all have so many questions and not many answers. One thing I do know, though, is that we rally around one another and support each other as we move forward from this day.

“We are all victims, though some much more so than others, and it will be important that we each seek to find comfort and support in the ways most meaningful for us,” he said.

Governor Youngkin ordered flags to be flown at half-staff Wednesday to honor two school officers killed in the shooting.

About 2,000 students attend Bridgewater College.