Two U.S. universities were thrown into chaos on August 21, 2025, after false reports of active shooters sparked lockdowns at Villanova University in Pennsylvania and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga just as their fall semesters began.
In Pennsylvania, a 911 caller claimed a gunman was inside a Villanova law school building around 4:30 p.m., reporting that at least one person had been wounded.
Police and campus security rushed to the scene, prompting lockdowns and alerts across the university. Authorities later confirmed that there was no shooter and no victims.
Around the same time in Tennessee, officials said another false threat of an active shooter disrupted campus life at UTC, forcing buildings to be cleared and students to shelter in place.
Police investigated and confirmed there was no danger.
Both incidents are now under investigation as possible swatting calls—false emergency reports intended to draw an armed police response.
Such hoaxes have increased across the United States, often targeting schools, universities, and public buildings.
The lockdowns ended after thorough searches, but the incidents left many students and staff shaken at the start of the academic year.
Law enforcement officials say they are working with federal partners to trace the origins of the calls.