Atlanta, Georgia, August 29, 2025
News Summary
A shelter-in-place order was declared at Clark Atlanta University due to reports of an active shooter, which were later confirmed to be false. The situation resulted in a strong police presence as authorities investigated. Similar hoax calls affected the University of Georgia as well, causing heightened concerns about safety at academic institutions. No injuries were reported, and investigations into the incidents are underway.
Atlanta, Georgia – A shelter-in-place order was issued late Friday night at Clark Atlanta University following reports of an active shooter on campus. The order led to a significant police presence as authorities responded to the situation, advising individuals to avoid the vicinity of Woodruff Library, which was the focal point of the incident.
Initial reports of the active shooter were confirmed to be inaccurate. Police officials stated there was no evidence supporting the presence of an armed individual on campus. The situation coincided with a similar call regarding an “armed shooter” at the University of Georgia, which also appears to be a hoax. Both incidents are currently under investigation by law enforcement agencies.
Clark Atlanta University’s Chief of Campus Police & Security confirmed that the campus was being closely monitored, and the Atlanta Police Department is assisting with the ongoing investigations. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries linked to these alarming events.
The FBI in Atlanta has noted a troubling trend, indicating an uptick in swatting events at universities and colleges nationally. Swatting refers to the act of making a false report to law enforcement to provoke a significant response from police or SWAT teams. Such incidents can lead to heightened fears and panic within academic communities.
As the investigations continue, updates from local news outlets are expected, but officials have emphasized the importance of accurate information dissemination to prevent chaos and misinformation.
Background Context
Clark Atlanta University, an esteemed historically black university located in Atlanta, has experienced a heightened sense of security awareness in light of recent national incidents related to gun violence on campus. The use of hoaxes to trigger police responses has ignited concerns about student safety and the repercussions such events can have on educational environments.
In this case, both Clark Atlanta University and the University of Georgia are grappling with the aftermath of fear induced by false alarms. Student populations are encouraged to remain vigilant while the respective institutions work to ensure their safety and well-being.
Conclusion
The situation remains fluid as both campuses reassess security measures and communicate with the community. Students and staff are advised to stay informed through official channels and remain alert to their surroundings.
FAQs
What triggered the shelter-in-place order at Clark Atlanta University?
The shelter-in-place order was issued following reports of an active shooter on campus, which later turned out to be false. The events coincided with a similar situation at the University of Georgia.
Have there been any injuries reported?
No injuries have been reported in connection to the active shooter incidents at either Clark Atlanta University or the University of Georgia.
What is ‘swatting’?
Swatting is the act of making a false report to initiate a large police or SWAT response, often causing undue panic and chaos.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Shelter-in-place Order | Issued at Clark Atlanta University due to false active shooter reports. |
| Police Response | Increased police presence on campus to ensure safety. |
| Report Accuracy | Initial reports of an active shooter turned out to be false. |
| Investigation Status | Both Clark Atlanta University and University of Georgia incidents are under investigation. |
| Injury Reports | No injuries have been reported. |
| Future Updates | Further information will be released as investigations continue. |
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Additional Resources
- WSB TV: Shelter-in-Place at Clark Atlanta University
- 11Alive: Clark Atlanta University Active Shooter Reports
- Atlanta News First: Shelter-in-Place Issued at Clark Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Swatting
- Wikipedia: Swatting
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
