By Brandi Makuski

Stevens Point police say the person who shot a 21-year-old man on Thursday night is not in custody — and they want to speak with anyone who has information on the events which transpired on March 17.

Police responded in force on St. Patrick’s Day after a caller reported hearing gunshots near the intersection of Fifth and Minnesota avenues at 7:48 PM. The area is home to several off-campus student rental units and was blocked off by police for several hours Thursday night.

Police block Minnesota Ave. between Maria Dr. and Fifth Ave. on Thursday. (City Times photo)

The gunshot victim, whose name has not been release, was found at the Health Enhancement Center (HEC) on the UWSP campus.

It was not immediately clear how or why the man, who police say was shot on the 2700 block of Fifth Ave., arrived at the HEC.

The man was transported by ambulance to Ministry St. Michael’s Hospital, and later transported to a trauma center for additional care. As of Friday morning, the man was listed in critical condition.

No further information on his identity, or the extent of his wounds, were immediately released.

Skibba said the shooting occurred after a “suspected drug deal gone bad”. University law enforcement is also involved in the investigation, he added.

Anyone with information on the incidents is being asked to contact the Stevens Point Police Dept. as soon as possible at (715) 346-1500. Callers can also contact the Portage County Crime Stoppers hotline at 888-346-6600.

According to Nick Schultz, media relations director at UWSP, students were notified of the incident via email.

“The shooting victim was found at the Health Enhancement Center,” Schultz’ email read in part. “UWSP Protective Services, Stevens Point police and fire departments responded.”

*Check back for updates