Shelter-in-place lifted at Villanova University, search for armed man who left train continues

VILLANOVA, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- A shelter-in-place order at Villanova University that was issued as police searched for an armed man near campus has been lifted, though the suspect remains on the loose.

Radnor Township police responded around 10:24 p.m. Tuesday to SEPTA's Norristown High Speed Line station on Aldwyn Lane for a reported fight on the train involving a weapon.

According to police, a suspect displayed a gun during the altercation.

In an alert to the university community, Villanova officials initially said a gunman had attempted to rob the train conductor. Radnor police later said there was no robbery attempt.

No injuries were reported.

Police said the suspect exited the train at the Aldwyn Lane station near The Commons residence hall complex and was seen fleeing on foot over the pedestrian bridge.

Police said the suspect is known by the victim to frequent the rail system.

"Radnor Township Police, assisted by Villanova University Police Department, SEPTA Police Department and Haverford Township Police Department checked the neighboring streets and campus extensively with negative results," Radnor police said.

Out of an abundance of caution, police said a shelter-in-place alert was sent out to the Villanova community. It has since been lifted.

Police said there is no threat to the university or Radnor community at this time.

In a statement to the student newspaper, The Villanovan, the university said it will have additional patrols throughout campus Wednesday.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact Radnor Township police at 610-688-0503.