Orientation Day at Villanova University turned chaotic on Thursday as authorities responded to reports of an active shooter on campus. The university, known as the alma mater of Pope Leo XIV, found itself thrust into a state of fear and uncertainty.
Villanova President Father Peter Donahue quickly labeled the situation a “cruel hoax,” assuring that there was no active shooter. As students and staff sheltered in place, local police were deployed to clear buildings, taking the report seriously even in the absence of victims.
The alert for students to shelter in place came just before 5 p.m. from the Radnor Township Police Department, which had received the report. “Radnor Township Police Department is on location at Villanova University for a report of an active shooter. All nearby residents and students are asked to SHELTER IN PLACE at this time,” they tweeted.
Footage captured from the air showed police mobilizing on campus while students fled open areas, seeking safety. Mixed messages filled social media feeds, with some asserting that the incident escalated during the university’s First Year Student mass.
Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer stated that initial assessments indicated someone may have been armed on campus. “We’re all going to work to try to get to the bottom of who might have done this,” he said, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Later, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro confirmed the reports were unfounded and part of a swatting incident. Swatting, considered a serious crime, involves making a false report to elicit a law enforcement response. “I know today was every parent’s nightmare, and every student’s biggest fear,” Shapiro remarked. He expressed gratitude that no one was harmed and voiced appreciation for law enforcement’s quick actions during the panic. “We will use every tool at our disposal to find the person or people who called in this fake threat and hold them accountable,” he added.
This incident underscores the pervasive fear of violence on campuses and the lengths to which individuals might go to instigate panic. The swift reaction by law enforcement and university officials reflects an ongoing commitment to safety in educational environments.
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