On August 21, 2025, Villanova University in Pennsylvania experienced a campus-wide lockdown due to a reported active shooter at the Charles Widger School of Law. The incident, which occurred during the university’s new student orientation, prompted immediate law enforcement response and widespread panic among students and families. However, authorities later confirmed that the threat was a “cruel hoax,” with no injuries or evidence of a shooter found.
Incident Overview
At approximately 4:30 p.m. on August 21, a 911 call reported an active shooter inside the law school building, claiming at least one victim. In response, Villanova University issued a shelter-in-place order, advising students and staff to lock and barricade doors. Law enforcement agencies, including the Radnor Township Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and the FBI, swiftly responded to the campus.
After conducting a thorough search of the premises, authorities determined that there was no active shooter, no injuries, and no firearms present on campus. Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer labeled the incident a “cruel hoax” and emphasized the seriousness of such false reports, stating, “If this was indeed a cruel hoax, this is a crime, and we will track you down if it’s the last thing we do.”
Community Impact
The false alarm occurred during Villanova’s new student orientation, a time when families and students are on campus for move-in activities. The report caused significant distress, with students and parents scrambling for safety. University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue expressed relief that no one was injured and condemned the hoax as a “cruel hoax” that disrupted the community’s sense of security.
Legal and Institutional Response
In addition to local law enforcement, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro condemned the hoax, describing it as a “swatting incident” and directing state police to utilize all available resources to identify and hold accountable those responsible.
Villanova University has pledged to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and to implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The university has also expressed gratitude to the law enforcement agencies and campus safety personnel for their swift and professional response.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights the growing concern over “swatting”—the act of making false reports to emergency services to elicit a large-scale response. Such hoaxes not only waste valuable law enforcement resources but also instill fear and disrupt communities. Authorities nationwide are intensifying efforts to address and prevent these dangerous pranks.
As investigations continue, Villanova University remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its community. The university urges anyone with information about the hoax to come forward to assist in holding those responsible accountable.
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