COLUMBIA, S.C. —Authorities at the University of South Carolina responded to a tense situation this evening after a report of gunfire at Thomas Cooper Library prompted a campus-wide safety alert and a swift law enforcement response.
According to University of South Carolina Police Department (USCPD) officials, the call came in around 6:30 p.m., reporting possible shots fired inside or near the library on the Columbia campus. In response, a Carolina Alert was immediately issued, instructing students, faculty, and staff to avoid the area and shelter in place.
Law enforcement agencies, including USCPD and assisting local authorities, quickly arrived on scene and conducted a thorough search of the library and surrounding areas. After an extensive investigation, no evidence of a shooting was found.
“Our officers responded immediately to ensure the safety of everyone on campus,” USCPD said in a statement. “At this time, we have no indication that any gunfire took place.”
While the shelter-in-place order has since been rescinded, the Thomas Cooper Library remains closed as officials continue to review the incident and ensure the building is secure.
Two individuals sustained minor injuries during the evacuation process but were treated at the scene and are expected to recover fully.
The false report comes amid heightened sensitivity to campus safety incidents nationwide, leaving many students shaken despite the lack of evidence of an actual threat.
“It was terrifying at first—we didn’t know what was going on,” said one student who was inside the library when the alert went out. “Everyone just started running.”
USCPD is urging the campus community to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately but reassured students and staff that there is no ongoing threat to campus safety.
University officials have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available regarding the source of the initial report.
This is a developing story. Additional details will be shared through Carolina Alert and official university communication channels as the investigation continues.
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