Covington, Georgia, October 6, 2025
News Summary
Authorities are investigating a potential hoax call linked to a swatting incident at Georgia State University’s Newton County campus. The incident, characterized by a report of an active shooter, prompted a swift response from local law enforcement. Upon arrival, they found no actual threat, leading to suspicion of a deliberate false report aimed at inciting a significant police response. The investigation continues as officials seek to uncover the motivations behind this alarming event and ensure campus safety.
Covington, Georgia: Investigating a Swatting Incident at Georgia State University
In an unsettling series of events, the local authorities are looking into a possible hoax call connected to a swatting incident at the Georgia State University’s Newton County campus. This incident unfolded on a typical Monday, sending local law enforcement into a flurry of activity over a reported active shooter situation.
Upon receiving the alarming call, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office promptly dispatched deputies to the location. Their mission was clear: assess the situation and ensure the safety of those on campus. Fortunately, as officials arrived and investigated, they determined that no actual threat existed. This led the authorities to suspect that the call was a swatting call, a deliberate false report often intended to provoke a substantial law enforcement response.
The Newton campus of Georgia State University is situated on Cedar Lane, just outside the bustling town of Covington. In response to the situation, the police units at the university sprang into action as well, joining forces with the sheriff’s office to ensure a thorough and efficient evaluation. Fortunately, they too reported no suspicious activities.
For added safety, authorities took the precaution of searching and clearing Buildings 1 and 2 on campus. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office kept the community updated during the incident via social media platforms, demonstrating their commitment to transparency and public safety.
As the investigation unfolds, it’s clear that authorities are not treating this incident lightly. The sheriff’s office is actively pursuing leads to understand why someone would resort to such alarmist behavior. During a negotiation with the alleged caller, law enforcement identified several inconsistencies in the caller’s story, raising further concerns.
The original report was particularly alarming, as the caller claimed to have shot his parents and indicated a desire to enter into negotiations with law enforcement. However, as they dug deeper, investigators discovered that the caller was actually from out of state, adding another twist to the tale.
The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety of everyone involved in this situation. As investigations continue, more information will be made available to the public. It’s a reminder of how seriously authorities take threats and the importance of their quick response in situations that could potentially escalate into dangerous scenarios.
Keeping the Community Informed
As developments arise, both the sheriff’s office and university police will continue to provide timely updates. Residents and students are encouraged to stay connected with official channels for the latest information regarding this investigation.
What is Swatting?
For those unfamiliar with the term, swatting involves making false reports to provoke a heavy police response, often resulting in unnecessary fear and disruption. This reckless behavior can lead to severe legal consequences and poses significant risks not just to law enforcement but also to innocent bystanders.
Conclusion
This recent incident at Georgia State University’s Newton County campus serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of responsible communication and the serious ramifications of hoaxes. While the swift action of law enforcement ensured that the situation was resolved without any harm, the investigation continues to uncover the motivations behind such alarming pranks.
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Potential Swatting Call Investigation at GSU Newton County
- Beaumont Enterprise: Newton County Deputies Handle Swatting Call
- WSBTV: Suspected Newton County Hit and Run Driver Identified
- Wikipedia: Swatting
- Google Search: Swatting incident
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.
