Las Vegas, NV – Security footage released by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas showed a campus police officer engaging in a deadly shootout with 67-year-old gunman Anthony Polito on December 6, 2023. The incident resulted in the death of three professors and the injury of a fourth. The footage captured by surveillance cameras portrayed moments of terror as the former business professor from North Carolina unleashed gunfire on the campus.
Polito, armed with a legally purchased handgun and carrying multiple bullet magazines, had a list of target names, none of whom were among the victims. The university released over 20 hours of security footage and 911 call recordings to shed light on the tragedy in response to public records requests.
During the chaotic 10-minute rampage, students and faculty found themselves fleeing as the sound of gunfire echoed through the campus, leading to panic and confusion. Amidst the chaos, a campus police officer arrived at the scene within 78 seconds of the shooting, ultimately neutralizing the threat.
The newly released video footage provided a harrowing glimpse into the events of that tragic day, highlighting the bravery and swift response of law enforcement in the face of danger. As the investigation unfolded, authorities revealed the gunman’s motives and the swift actions taken to mitigate further harm to the campus community.
The shooting at UNLV bore eerie reminders of past incidents of gun violence, occurring just miles away from the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history in 2017. The university community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy, with ongoing efforts to support those affected by the traumatic events.
As the campus community works towards healing and recovery, the release of the security footage serves as a somber reminder of the impact of gun violence and the importance of preparedness in the face of unexpected threats. The resilience and unity demonstrated in the wake of tragedy are testament to the strength of the UNLV community in the face of adversity.