UNCW Cancels Classes After False Active Shooter Reports

A false active shooter alert prompted a campus-wide lockdown at the University of North Carolina Wilmington Thursday evening, and classes scheduled for Friday, Sept. 19 have been canceled.

Officials lifted the shelter-in-place order late Thursday after determining there was no credible threat, but out of an abundance of caution all Friday assignments and exams have been postponed and the UNCW Library will remain closed.

Timeline of Events

• 7:20 p.m. - UNCW Police issued an “UNCW Alert” reporting an unconfirmed gunman on campus and instructed students to shelter in place.
• Shortly thereafter - Local law enforcement swept campus facilities alongside university officers.
• Late Thursday - Chancellor Aswani Volety announced the all-clear, confirming there was no armed individual on campus.
• Friday - All in-person classes are canceled, assignments and exams postponed, and the campus library closed.

City Services Operating Campus dining, Recreation Center and shuttle services will operate on reduced weekend schedules, while fully online students should consult instructors regarding coursework impacts.

Official Statement “We are saddened the UNCW community had to experience this, and we want to thank those who were on campus for your cooperation and patience,” Chancellor Volety said, emphasizing that student safety remains the top priority.

Next Steps UNCW will send updates by 8:30 a.m. Friday unless conditions change. Any suspicious activity should be reported immediately via 911 or to UNCW Police at 910-962-2222.