Vanguard editor says campus reaction mixed following student death

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Student journalists at University of South Alabama said they are working on the biggest story of their college career.

USA officials said 18-year-old freshman Gilbert Collarwas killed by a campus police officer early Saturday morning after he reportedly ignored several warnings and charged the officer in a threatening manner while naked.

Editor-in-chief of South Alabama’s student run newspaper, The Vanguard, said students have had mixed reactions.

Students recall moments before shooting

"The people who lost a loved one have one point of view; the people that have been critical of the police (have their point of view,) and then those who are supportive. It’s really all across the spectrum. But it’s 100 percent passionate from everyone involved," said Cassie Fambro.

Even though Fambro has a job to do, she is still a student at USA, watching the story unfold.

“I’ve worked with the police department, and I know this police department. And so some of the things being said obviously touch a nerve. But then I know that things happen at night. And I 'm a student as well so I feel it from that perspective,” Fambro.

Fambro said she's spoken to national media outlets, students who said they were with Collar the night he was killed, but she is most humbled by one particular group of people who ask for her perspective.

"I have parents who message me and say, ‘Hey is my kid safe? Should I send my kid back? What should I do?" said Fambro.

Students are on fall break and are expected to return Wednesday.