Suspect arrested in Halloween shooting

A man in conjunction with a shooting that occurred on campus Wednesday night has been arrested, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

The Los Angeles Times reported the man’s identity as 19-year-old Brandon Spencer, a security guard from Inglewood, and said he has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Spencer allegedly shot Geno Hall, a former Crenshaw High School football star, and three other victims in a confrontation that occurred outside the Ronald Tutor Campus Center. Police also detained another male suspect Wednesday night.

The suspects and victims were in line for the Halloween party “Freak or Greek,” which was being held in the ballroom, according to eyewitness accounts. At least 500 students from USC and other colleges attended the party, which was heavily promoted by the event organizer LA Hype across social media. Scheduling papers for the event were filed under the Black Student Assembly’s name, according to Undergraduate Student Government President Mikey Geragos.

USC President C. L. Max Nikias issued a statement Thursday in which he reassured students and parents of the continued safety of the university, but said he will review the university’s security policies.

“Although this incident did not involve USC students and was resolved quickly, it strikes at the heart of the Trojan Family,” Nikias said. “I understand the apprehensions and concerns of our campus community as we move forward.”

Nikias later sent an email to the Times saying he would announce changes to campus security parties early next week.

Michael Jackson, vice president for Student Affairs at USC, also issued a statement Thursday emphasizing the need for special attention focused on safety.

“This incident reminds us that we must look out for ourselves and be particularly vigilant about the personal safety of friends and guests at our social events,” Jackson said.

Sean Fitz-Gerald and Daniel Rothberg contributed to this report.