A West Hartford family faced a terrifying situation at Villanova University during a college drop-off. What should have been a joyful moment turned chaotic when they received alerts about an active shooter on campus.
Kate Mugno was enjoying goodbye mass with her family after dropping off her children when panic erupted. “We got a NOVA Alert stating there was an active shooter. Then we heard ‘run,’” she recounted. In the chaos, people sprinted to safety, and her family became separated.
Mugno emphasized the fear they felt. “We lost our daughter for a moment. My husband ran back to find her.” Eventually, they found safety in a closet at the Conolly Center, where they waited for updates. They later moved to a larger room with water and snacks while the campus was on lockdown.
When they finally learned it was all a hoax, relief mixed with anger washed over them. “We were glad no one was hurt, but it felt like Andrew’s experience was stolen from him,” Mugno said.
Villanova’s response was praised by Mugno, who noted how Father Peter comforted students with blessings as they left. Eyewitness News captured video footage showing the chaos, with people dropping belongings while fleeing.
This incident has drawn attention not only for its distressing nature but also for its implications. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro called the event a “swatting” incident—a dangerous prank where false threats are made to provoke panic. Swatting is illegal across the United States, and Shapiro has directed state police to investigate.
This situation serves as a stark reminder about the impact of misinformation and the need for quick, responsible responses during emergencies. Experts warn that swatting can have severe consequences, not just for those involved but also for law enforcement resources stretched thin during such incidents.
In light of recent trends, social media reactions have highlighted community concerns about safety and trust in public spaces. As colleges open their doors this fall, discussions about mental health and campus security are more relevant than ever, prompting students and parents to advocate for increased safety measures on campus.
This event marks a significant moment in understanding the vital role of communication during crises, as well as the ongoing challenges of ensuring safety in educational settings.
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