Bluffton, South Carolina – The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) Bluffton campus was placed on lockdown Wednesday morning following a bank robbery at a nearby TD Bank on University Parkway. The incident prompted a swift response from law enforcement and university officials, who issued a precautionary shelter-in-place order to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Bluffton Police received reports of the robbery shortly after it occurred, describing a suspect entering the bank and fleeing the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash. The situation quickly escalated, leading authorities to notify the USCB campus about potential risks in the vicinity.
University officials acted immediately, alerting students and faculty through emergency notification systems. Classes were paused, and all campus buildings were secured. Staff were instructed to remain inside, and students were advised to stay away from windows and doors until the threat had been assessed.
Law enforcement set up a perimeter around the bank and surrounding areas. Bluffton Police, in coordination with university security and the South Carolina Highway Patrol, searched for the suspect while working to ensure no other individuals were in danger. Residents and business owners nearby were also urged to stay indoors.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a vehicle speeding away from the bank moments after the robbery. Authorities have asked anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward to assist with the investigation. No injuries have been reported in connection with the robbery.
The lockdown at USCB Bluffton lasted for several hours, allowing police to conduct thorough checks of campus grounds and surrounding streets. Emergency responders emphasized that the precautionary measures were necessary to protect the community while officers tracked the suspect.
Students and faculty expressed relief once the shelter-in-place order was lifted. Many took to social media to describe the tense morning, praising the university and police for the quick and coordinated response. Campus mental health services were made available for anyone feeling shaken by the incident.
Authorities confirmed that the bank robbery remains under active investigation. Surveillance footage from the bank is being reviewed, and law enforcement is following leads to identify and apprehend the individual responsible. Bluffton Police have asked the public to remain vigilant while the investigation continues.
University leadership released a statement reaffirming their commitment to safety and security on campus. They emphasized that emergency protocols were followed as planned and urged the community to continue using alert systems and to report any suspicious activity promptly.
The Bluffton campus incident highlights the importance of preparedness in unexpected situations. Officials from both the university and local law enforcement stressed the value of remaining calm, following emergency instructions, and supporting one another during high-stress events like the Wednesday morning robbery.