A false alert about an active shooter caused panic at the University of Arkansas on Monday. It all started just after noon when the campus safety system, RazALERT, notified everyone of a potential threat.
University of Arkansas Assistant Police Chief Matt Mills shared that they received a staggering 308 calls from landlines and 38 emergency calls about gunfire in buildings like Mullins Library. “We responded to reports from seven different locations,” Mills said.
After extensive searching, police concluded that the reports were unfounded. “We found no evidence of shots fired and no injuries,” Mills noted. It appeared to be another hoax or swatting incident. Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated case—six similar false alarms concerning active shooters occurred at universities across the U.S. in August alone.
Monty Mills, an expert on active shooter situations from Safe Haven Security Group, stressed the value of preparedness. “The best response comes from prior training,” he explained. This preparation is key to preventing casualties, even if some may think it’s excessive.
By 2:45 p.m., with help from local and state law enforcement, the University of Arkansas Police Department cleared all buildings and confirmed there was no threat. Classes for the rest of the day were canceled.
Assistant Chief Mills mentioned they are investigating the origin of these false reports and may pursue charges against those involved. This incident highlights a growing concern in college safety and the psychological toll such threats can have on students and staff.
Context on False Reports
The rise in hoaxes is alarming. Recent studies show that schools are grappling with the psychological impact of these events. In 2022 alone, there were over 70 reported cases of swatting across various educational institutions, leading to significant disruptions and fear among students.
Social Media Reactions
On platforms like Twitter, many students expressed shock and frustration. They shared their experiences of lockdowns and lockdown drills, adding to the ongoing conversations about campus safety and community vigilance. Some called for improved communication and better training in handling such situations.
As universities face these challenges, it’s crucial for communities to stay informed and prepared, ensuring that safety measures are in place for everyone. For more on campus safety strategies, see this report from the National Center for Campus Public Safety.
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Active shooter,University of Arkansas,Hoax,Law enforcement,RazALERT,Mullins Library,Swatting,Training
