Atlanta, GA, August 29, 2025

News Summary

Clark Atlanta University is currently investigating false claims of an active shooter on campus that led to a temporary shelter-in-place order. The Atlanta Police Department responded to the situation, but no credible threat was found. This incident is part of a troubling trend of hoax active shooter reports at educational institutions nationwide. Authorities are urging vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities to ensure public safety.

Atlanta

Clark Atlanta University is investigating false reports of an active shooter that circulated on its campus Friday night, leading to a shelter-in-place order for safety. The reports, which were deemed inaccurate shortly after they were received, prompted a response from the Atlanta Police Department to assist campus police in addressing the situation.

A notification from the university was issued around 9:40 p.m., clarifying that there was no indication of a confirmed threat. The university’s initial inquiry suggested that claims of an active shooter were unfounded. Meanwhile, students and faculty members were advised to stay indoors as a precaution while the investigation unfolded.

The Atlanta Police Department dispatched units to the Robert W. Woodruff Library as part of the response, with officers arriving at approximately 8:55 p.m. By 10:45 p.m., police had searched all levels of the library and reported no active situation. Significant police presence was noted at the scene, with officers seen taking cover behind vehicles, indicating the high level of concern surrounding the report.

In the area surrounding the university, individuals, including nearby restaurant patrons, were instructed to shelter in place until authorities assured their safety. Videos taken during the event displayed multiple police units and a helicopter using a spotlight to survey the vicinity.

Despite the seriousness of the ordeal, the FBI Atlanta has confirmed that it was not called to assist with this particular incident. This false alarm is part of a worrying national trend involving hoax active shooter calls targeting educational institutions. Numerous instances have occurred across Georgia in the days leading up to the Clark Atlanta University incident, with similar hoax threats reported at Central Georgia Technical College, Rutland High School, and Mercer College‘s Macon campus. The FBI is currently investigating such hoaxes, alarmed by the increasing occurrences at colleges nationwide.

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior or threats to law enforcement immediately. They emphasize that swift communication with the police is crucial in preventing escalation in such potentially dangerous situations.

Background

In recent months, colleges and universities across the United States have faced numerous false reports of active shooter situations. These incidents have not only caused panic among students and staff but also tied up emergency services and law enforcement resources. The alarming frequency of these hoaxes is prompting investigations by federal agencies, with the goal of identifying and prosecuting those responsible for initiating such threats.

Summary of Critical Details

• False active shooter reports at Clark Atlanta University led to shelter-in-place orders.
• No evidence of a confirmed threat was found during the investigation.
• Emergency response included multiple police units and ongoing investigations.
• Trend of hoax shooter threats at colleges has been escalating across the country.
• Authorities encourage immediate reporting of suspicious activities.

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Additional Resources

• Atlanta News First
• Wikipedia: Active shooter
• 11Alive
• Google Search: hoax active shooter reports
• WSB TV
• Google Scholar: hoax threats in schools
• Fox 5 Atlanta
• Encyclopedia Britannica: active shooter hoax
• AJC
• Google News: Clark Atlanta University

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.