Search Intensifies For Washington College Student Who May Have A Gun

CHESTERTOWN, Md. (WJZ) -- The search intensifies for a Washington College student who may have a gun. The Eastern Shore campus is evacuated after the school takes an unusual step, sending students home as a precaution.

Meghan McCorkell has more on what may have led to this.

Authorities say Jacob Marberger was recently suspended from school and facing possible expulsion for having a gun on campus.

A quiet night at Washington College, as the campus is evacuated.

"It was just a little unnerving knowing something could happen," one woman said.

The FBI and ATF are now searching for 19-year-old Jacob Marberger.

The sophomore disappeared early Monday morning, when, his parents tell police, he drove from college to their Cheltenham, Pennsylvania home, where he may have taken a rifle.

"We do not have evidence that he has threatened students, the campus, the community here," said Sheila Bair, Washington College president.

Marberger was recently suspended from school and kicked out of his fraternity for showing off an antique handgun on campus. An arrest warrant has now been issued.

Campus police say the incident happened after he was the target of some pranks.

"In speaking with Jacob, he did feel persecuted by several students on campus. That was his perception of things," said Jerry Roderick, campus public safety.

With that criminal warrant issued, police up an down the East Coast are now on the lookout for Marberger.

"It's critical to locate this individual," said public safety expert Rob Weinhold.

Weinhold says the aggressive move of evacuating campus is a precaution until Marberger is found.

"He may be in danger because he's dealing with a number of sensitive issues in his life at this point. He may be a danger to himself and to others," he said.

On social media, friends are hoping for Marberger's safe return, writing: "You're a good man with a bright future," and, "I can only hope you are safe, remember that you are loved."

Marberger was last seen driving a 1997 green Range Rover with Pennsylvania tags.

The Washington College campus will be closed Wednesday. Decisions about reopening will be made on a day-to-day basis.

Anyone with information on Marberger's whereabouts is asked to call Chestertown police at 410-778-1800.