Those on campus are urged to shelter in place.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Students at the University of South Carolina have been alerted to a report of an active shooter by the university’s campus alert system.

The alert does not confirm whether a shooting has happened, but urges students and others on the campus to evacuate the area, seek shelter and barricade themselves if necessary. The announcement is in effect until further notice.

“Defend yourself if  you encounter the suspect,” the alert states. “Obey public safety officials’ commands.”

The public is urged to avoid the area of the Thomas Cooper Library and shelter in place. Alerts to students are for a 6-foot white male with black pants.

As of 7:11 p.m., campus authorities said they have not yet found definitive evidence of an active shooter but are still searching affected buildings. They continued to ask the campus community to shelter in place until they received an all-clear report.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as they become available.