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A student from the University of Delaware was arrested after authorities thwarted an alleged scheme targeting the University Police Department. The incident has raised concerns about safety within the campus community.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware announced that 25-year-old Luqmaan Khan from Wilmington was apprehended on Monday. This followed a traffic stop in the city where officers discovered disturbing evidence linked to his intentions.
Details of the Arrest
During the search of his truck, officers from the New Castle County Police Department recovered a .357 caliber Glock handgun loaded with 27 rounds, along with three additional magazines, an armored ballistic plate, and a detailed handwritten notebook. The notebook outlined various weapons and their potential use in an attack, expressing Khan’s understanding of how to evade law enforcement post-incident.
Prosecutors revealed that the notebook explicitly referenced a member of the University of Delaware Police Department by name and contained detailed plans about the police station, including entry and exit points labeled ‘UD Police Station.’
Federal and State Charges
Khan now faces federal charges for illegal possession of a machinegun, an offense that could result in up to 10 years in prison. Concurrently, he faces multiple state charges, including felony counts of possessing a large capacity magazine and carrying a concealed deadly weapon, as well as a misdemeanor for resisting arrest.
University interim President Laura Carlson confirmed that Khan was an undergraduate at the time of his arrest. She communicated to the campus community about the university’s actions regarding Khan’s separation. “The University has temporarily separated the student from the University, including a ban from all UD campuses while legal matters are being resolved. We are working closely with law enforcement throughout this matter and are sharing this information now that we have been cleared to do so,” she stated.
Reassuring the Campus Community
President Carlson emphasized that there are currently no known or immediate threats to the University of Delaware community. She expressed the collective fear sparked by the incident, stating, “This is frightening to all of us.” Her message highlighted the university’s commitment to safety while unveiling the serious nature of the plans discovered.
Sequence of Events Leading to Arrest
On Monday, November 24, 2025, at approximately 11:47 p.m., officers conducting a routine property check in Canby Park West spotted Khan’s vehicle, a white Toyota Tacoma, parked in the area after hours. Officers initiated a traffic stop and contacted the driver, which was Khan.
As officers developed probable cause to remove him from the vehicle, Khan refused to comply, leading to his resistance and subsequent arrest. The following day, law enforcement, including the FBI, executed a search of Khan’s residence in Wilmington.
Discovery of Additional Weapons
During the raid, investigators recovered a Glock 19 9mm handgun fitted with an illegal machinegun conversion device, commonly known as a ‘switch.’ Additionally, they found a .556 rifle equipped with a scope and red dot sight, several extended magazines, hollow point rounds, and a tactical vest containing a ballistic plate. These findings indicate a serious risk that authorities successfully addressed before further escalation.
A Collaborative Law Enforcement Effort
Acting U.S. Attorney Julianne Murray praised the collaboration between federal and state law enforcement agencies, highlighting the joint efforts that neutralized a significant threat to public safety. Murray stated, “This case is a quintessential example of federal and state law enforcement collaborating to neutralize a grave threat to Delaware before the worst could come to pass. I want to thank our dedicated law enforcement partners at the FBI and the NCCPD for their exceptional work. As always, we are proud to work with them to keep Delaware safe.”
Ongoing Safety Measures
As investigations continue, the University of Delaware is taking measures to ensure the safety of its students, faculty, and staff. The university is reinforcing its partnership with local law enforcement and enhancing security protocols on campus. Campus safety is a top priority, and the university remains vigilant against threats.
The incident serves as a reminder that vigilance and close collaboration between educational institutions and law enforcement are essential in maintaining a secure and supportive environment for all students.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the University of Delaware community is urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to authorities. Engagement and communication are vital in ensuring a safe campus atmosphere.
