Villanova University Reports False Alarm of Active Shooter Incident
Radnor Township police responded to yet another false emergency incident report at Villanova University on Sunday, just a day prior to the commencement of classes for the fall semester. The report, which involved an unspecified weapon, was made at Austin Hall dormitory around 10:20 AM. Police Superintendent Christopher Flanagan confirmed that officers arrived promptly and ensured the building was cleared by 11:30 AM, finding no evidence of criminal activity.
In a timely update shared on the Radnor police department’s Facebook page, officials stated that they were working to secure the campus and restore normal operations. An earlier version of the post erroneously described the incident as a “reported active shooter,” leading to significant alarm among students and faculty members. Flanagan indicated that further details about the call’s origin and how the situation unfolded are still under investigation.
Villanova University President, the Rev. Peter Donahue, communicated with students and faculty shortly after the incident, emphasizing that the threat was unfounded. His message acknowledged the anxiety associated with such alerts, underscoring that the university would respond with extreme caution to ensure community safety.
This latest hoax follows a similar incident just three days earlier when a false alert regarding an active shooter at the law school building caused chaos as students and parents attending orientation scrambled for safety. The FBI, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office are already involved in investigating the earlier report, highlighting the seriousness of these disturbances, especially after a false report emerged at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga on the same day as the Villanova law school incident.
In light of recent events, Donahue advised that there would be a heightened police presence on campus indefinitely. Despite the stress and confusion generated by these incidents, he reassured the community that there was no ongoing legitimate threat to their safety.
While police have not yet determined if the two false alarms at Villanova are connected, Flanagan noted that both incidents could stem from separate motivations, emphasizing that those responsible seem intent on creating turmoil. Community reactions have largely expressed frustration and concern, with some residents urging law enforcement to apprehend the individuals behind these threats.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain vigilant, working to uphold campus safety standards and support the well-being of the Villanova community.
This is a developing story and updates will follow as further information becomes available.
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