University of Arkansas Shooting Hoax Triggers Campus Lockdown
By Sunidhi - Aug 26, 2025
Panic at the University of Arkansas campus due to a false active shooter alert near Mullins Library. The incident was revealed to be a "swatting" hoax as authorities found no evidence of violence. Campus emergency protocols were lifted, classes canceled, and police presence increased. Officials warned against false reports and highlighted the disruptive nature of such hoaxes.
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University of Arkansas via Flickr
Panic gripped the ,[object Object], campus on August 25, 2025, when a ,[object Object], emergency notification warned students and staff of a possible active shooter near Mullins Library. The alert, issued around 12:30 p.m., instructed the campus community to “Avoid. Deny. Defend.” as law enforcement agencies rushed to the scene. Students sheltered in place, while officers from the ,University of Arkansas, Police Department and ,[object Object], quickly secured the area and began clearing buildings.
Authorities conducted a detailed sweep of the library and nearby facilities but ultimately found no evidence of gunfire, injuries, or suspects. By late afternoon, officials confirmed that the reports of a ,University of Arkansas, shooting were unfounded. Emergency protocols were lifted around 4 p.m., though classes were canceled for the rest of the day. Housing, dining, and transit services remained operational as police maintained a heightened presence across the campus to reassure students and staff.
University police later revealed that the incident was part of a growing trend of “,[object Object],” hoaxes targeting colleges nationwide. More than 300 landline calls and 38 emergency calls reported threats in at least seven campus buildings, creating widespread confusion and fear. Assistant Chief Matt Mills confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, while Arkansas Attorney General officials warned that making false active shooter reports is a serious crime and promised to pursue charges if those responsible are identified.
The ,University of Arkansas, shooting hoax left many shaken, but administrators emphasized that emergency systems such as ,RazALERT, worked effectively to protect the campus community. Officials urged students and faculty to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately. While no actual violence occurred, the incident highlighted the disruptive and dangerous consequences of ,swatting,, which continues to pose a challenge for universities across the United States.