Tragic Shooting at Texas Tech University
Jun. 24, 2025
Updated Jun. 25, 2025 at 5:12 p.m. CDT
Update:
5 p.m. June 25, 2025: Revised to include information from a news conference and the alleged shooter’s identity.
Shooting Incident
One person was fatally shot early Tuesday after opening fire on Texas Tech police officers who were investigating a nearby “suspicious vehicle” after working an unrelated traffic stop near the university’s Jones AT&T Stadium, campus police Chief Kyle Bonath said.
The alleged shooter had no known connection to the university or the Lubbock area, Bonath said during a Tuesday afternoon news conference. Two Texas Tech police officers suffered “non-life-threatening” injuries.
Alleged Shooter’s Identity
The alleged shooter was identified Wednesday as Rhino Simboli, 63. Police said he was from Ohio but has ties to Florida and Texas.
“What occurred last night is a very vivid example of the courage and commitment our officers show as they keep our communities safe, and for that, we’re profoundly grateful,” Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec said during the Tuesday news conference.
Response and Investigation
One officer remained hospitalized for additional procedures Tuesday, while the other had been discharged, the chief said.
Bonath said the officers’ names may be released as the investigation moves forward, though the investigation was “too preliminary” to do so Tuesday.
After handling an unrelated traffic stop, Texas Tech campus police approached a vehicle at about 12:45 a.m. that they believed to be “suspicious” in the 2700 block of Marsha Sharp Freeway, authorities said.
The Simboli was pronounced dead at the location. Lubbock police are investigating the shooting, Amber Edwards, a Lubbock police spokesperson, said in a statement.
University Response
Fielding questions from reporters, Schovanec said university staff did not notify the student body until later in the day, partly because fewer students were on campus for the summer term.
Crime in The News
Conclusion
The tragic shooting at Texas Tech University is a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect their communities. The incident is still under investigation, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened at Texas Tech University?
A: One person was fatally shot after opening fire on Texas Tech police officers who were investigating a suspicious vehicle.
Q: Who was the alleged shooter?
A: The alleged shooter was identified as Rhino Simboli, 63, from Ohio with ties to Florida and Texas.
Q: Were any police officers injured?
A: Yes, two Texas Tech police officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Q: Is the investigation ongoing?
A: Yes, the investigation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
