Villanova University faced a second false active shooter report in four days.

Another Active Shooter Hoax at Villanova University

Villanova University experienced a second active shooter hoax in less than a week. Authorities conducted a police sweep on Sunday morning only to confirm that the threat was unfounded.

According to a social media update from the Radnor Township Police Department, they responded to reports of active shooters at the university’s Austin Hall around 11:40 a.m.

Shortly after, Radnor police clarified that the call had been false.

The bogus threat targeted Austin Hall, a student residence located on the Pennsylvania campus. A spokesperson from Villanova University noted that the administration was aware of the report early that morning and assessed it to be unsubstantiated. The police at Villanova subsequently declared the situation all clear.

The usual activities on campus resumed afterward, the spokesman added.

This incident marked the second false shooter report faced by the university this week, following another unsettling event at Augustine’s Catholic University.

On Thursday afternoon, authorities had already labeled the previous active shooter report as a “cruel hoax,” coinciding with new students moving into the campus.

According to Radnor police, visitors and families who were assisting students were ordered to evacuate after it was confirmed to be a false alarm. A university alert had warned people to stay away from Scarpa Hall, located on the western side of the campus near several residence and dining halls.

This situation initiated a significant response from both local and federal police, who carried out a quick area sweep while dressed in tactical gear.

Rev. Peter Donohue expressed concern during orientation mass, stating, “As we welcomed our newest Villanovan and her family, panic and fear gripped the community due to the active shooter reports.”

Footage from the outdoor event depicted chaotic scenes, with students and families scrambling for safety amidst the alarming news.

Governor Josh Shapiro called the report “unfounded” and denounced it as a malicious act designed to instigate panic. “Swatting is illegal,” he posted on social media, urging law enforcement to thoroughly investigate and find those responsible for the false threat.

The incoming class of 2029 consists of approximately 1,770 students, and according to the academic calendar, classes are scheduled to start on Monday.