VILLANOVA, Pa. (AP) -

On Thursday afternoon, Villanova University students and faculty were put on lockdown. This occurred after an “ACTIVE SHOOTER” alert was issued near Scarpa Hall, home to the Charles Widger School of Law. The warning went out just before 4:30 p.m. EDT through the university’s NOVA Alert system. It told everyone on campus to find a secure spot and lock or barricade doors.

Radnor Township police posted on X about responding to an active shooter. They told nearby residents and students to stay inside until everything was safe again. A video shared on social media showed students crouching under desks and fleeing for safety as police swept through the building.

Late Thursday night, Villanova University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue said the alert was due to a false report. He called it a “cruel hoax.” He told the community, “There was no active shooter, no injuries, and no firearms on campus.” He felt relieved that “no one was harmed” despite the panic and chaos.

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer said his office and the FBI will look into the false report. They aim to find out who is responsible. University officials thanked campus and local police for their quick response. They also stated that support services are available for students and staff impacted by the incident.