FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Panic and confusion gripped the University of Arkansas campus on Monday after reports of an active shooter near Mullins Library prompted an immediate response from law enforcement. However, authorities have since determined the reports to be false, labeling the incident a hoax.
The alert began circulating shortly before noon when messages warning of an “active shooter” spread quickly through social media and campus communication channels. Out of an abundance of caution, the University of Arkansas Police Department (UAPD) and other law enforcement agencies rapidly responded to the campus, with officers converging on Mullins Library and surrounding areas.
Students and staff were advised to shelter in place as officers conducted a thorough search of the library and nearby buildings. After an extensive sweep, no evidence of a shooter or threat was found, and the university issued an all-clear notice.
University officials have since condemned the false report, noting the disruption and fear it caused among the campus community. “Hoax reports like these not only create unnecessary panic but also divert critical law enforcement resources away from real emergencies,” said a UAPD spokesperson.
Authorities are now investigating the origin of the false report and have indicated that individuals responsible for making such false claims could face serious criminal charges.
The incident comes amid a troubling rise in swatting incidents nationwide—hoax emergency calls designed to provoke an armed police response—raising concerns over public safety, mental health impacts, and law enforcement preparedness.
While no one was physically harmed, students have described the experience as terrifying. “I was in the library when the alert came in,” one student shared. “We locked the doors and hid under desks. Even though it turned out to be fake, it felt very real in that moment.”
The university has announced that counseling services will be made available for students and staff affected by the ordeal.
Officials are urging the public to take emergency alerts seriously but also to verify information through official channels before spreading unconfirmed reports.
The UAPD is asking anyone with information about the source of this hoax to contact them as the investigation continues.
Leave a Reply