ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — Albany State University (ASU) is reportedly prioritizing safety as homecoming celebrations get underway this weekend, implementing comprehensive security upgrades after the deadly campus shooting that occurred during the 2024 homecoming week.

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ASU Police Chief Anita Allen and multiple law enforcement agencies began planning enhanced security measures immediately after the tragic incident that killed one person and injured five others. The new protocols include drone surveillance, additional foot patrols and increased resources from the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, Dougherty County Police and Albany Police.

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Campus access restricted with checkpoint system

Blue and gold barricades now stretch across the campus with designated entry points to monitor who enters university grounds. Students, alumni and visitors must have wristbands to access campus, and each checkpoint will feature walk-through metal detectors.

“We’ve sat down and looked at the road map, how will it look with these barricades, how do we need to stage the barricades,” Allen said. “And the purpose of that is for — going back to the wristbands — making sure that you have a checkpoint.”

The enhanced security comes as historically Black colleges and universities continue to face safety challenges during homecoming events. Just last week, South Carolina State University experienced violence during its homecoming celebration.

Focus on prevention and quick response

While acknowledging that no one can predict what may happen, Allen emphasized her department’s commitment to proactive measures and rapid response capabilities.

“But what we can do is make sure we’re being proactive and we act if something happens,” Allen said. “It’s unfortunate but again, we must do the best that we can to prevent that. Do our due diligence, put those things in place and we just hope and pray we have a happy and safe homecoming.”

Despite the heightened security measures, Allen stressed that the weekend remains focused on unity, pride and celebration for the ASU community.

“Don’t be afraid. Come out and enjoy. This is your homecoming. This is the homecoming for the community and we want our students to have a good time, we want you to come out and have a good time,” Allen said.

Officials are reminding attendees to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Additional parking will be available on the lower campus to improve traffic flow, though delays are expected due to ongoing Oglethorpe Bridge construction limiting access to East Albany.

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