UGA Campus “Armed Shooter” Hoax Prompts Emergency Alert, All Clear Issued

ATHENS, Ga. - The University of Georgia activated its campus emergency alert system at 8:51 p.m. on August 29 after receiving a report of an “armed shooter” near the Main Library on South Jackson Street. Students and residents were urged to avoid the area while University of Georgia Police Department investigators and campus security officers responded to the incident.

Upon arrival, officers conducted a thorough sweep of the library vicinity using security cameras and on-foot searches. By 10:40 p.m., authorities determined the report was a hoax and issued an all-clear message to the campus community. No injuries or property damage were reported.

UGA Police Chief Karissa Niehoff condemned the false alarm as a “dangerous and unlawful act,” emphasizing that swatting incidents divert critical emergency resources and cause undue fear. The department, in collaboration with state and federal law enforcement, is actively investigating the source of the hoax report.

University officials reiterated the importance of prompt communications during emergencies and reminded the community that making false reports can result in criminal charges. Counseling and support services remain available through Student Care and Outreach, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS), and the Employee Assistance Program for those affected by the incident.