Atlanta, GA, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Clark Atlanta University was placed under a shelter-in-place order following reports of an active shooter that were later confirmed to be a hoax. Authorities, including the Atlanta Police Department and campus police, are investigating the incident, which follows a trend of similar false reports nationwide. Despite the lack of danger, the university took safety precautions to protect its students and staff while the situation was assessed. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as investigations continue.
Atlanta, GA – Reports of an active shooter at Clark Atlanta University have been deemed a hoax by campus police, who confirmed that no danger existed on the premises. Despite the inaccurate claims, authorities initiated a shelter-in-place order to ensure the safety of students and staff while the situation was being assessed.
The Atlanta Police Department is actively engaged in investigating the incident to determine the origins and motivations behind the hoax. A collaborative effort with both campus police and local authorities is ongoing as they monitor potential threats to the university community.
Multiple reports emerged that various law enforcement and emergency response teams were dispatched to the campus as part of the precautionary measures. The shelter-in-place order was issued as a protective response, advising those on campus to remain indoors until it was safe to resume normal activities.
This incident at Clark Atlanta University follows a troubling trend of similar hoaxes regarding active shooter threats across educational institutions nationwide. In recent days, false reports have also disrupted classes and led to lockdowns at several universities, including the University of Georgia, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Arkansas, Northern Arizona University, Iowa State, Kansas State, University of Colorado-Boulder, and University of New Hampshire. Additionally, nearby Central Georgia Technical College and Rutland High School had to initiate lockdown procedures due to similar threats.
These alarming incidents prompted the FBI’s Atlanta office to report an increase in “swatting” events targeting universities and schools. Swatting refers to the act of falsely reporting an emergency, leading to a significant law enforcement response. Authorities express heightened concern that the frequency of these false reports may compromise emergency response efficacy and could ultimately desensitize the public to real threats.
Law enforcement agencies emphasize that providing false information about threats drains essential resources and places lives in jeopardy. As the investigation continues, the police are examining potential links between the various incidents of hoaxes across multiple educational institutions to garner insights that could aid in prevention efforts.
Members of the community are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or communications to law enforcement. As authorities work diligently to safeguard against potential dangers, it is imperative that individuals actively participate in securing their surroundings.
As the situation continues to unfold, the safety and well-being of students and faculty remain of utmost importance. The investigation is ongoing as public safety officials seek to identify those responsible for these alarming disturbances.
FAQ
What happened at Clark Atlanta University?
Reports of an active shooter at Clark Atlanta University were investigated and determined to be a hoax. No danger was present on campus.
Why was a shelter-in-place order issued?
The shelter-in-place order was issued out of precaution to ensure the safety of students and staff while the situation was assessed.
What similar incidents have occurred recently?
There have been multiple hoax active shooter reports affecting several universities across the country, including the University of Georgia, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and more.
What is ‘swatting’?
Swatting refers to falsely reporting an emergency, which leads to a significant law enforcement response. It poses serious risks to public safety.
What actions are authorities taking?
The FBI and local law enforcement are investigating the hoaxes and ensuring the safety of the community. They encourage the public to report suspicious activity.
Chart: Key Features of Recent Hoax Incidents
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Clark Atlanta University |
| Type of Incident | Hoax Active Shooter Report |
| Action Taken | Shelter-in-place Order Issued |
| Investigating Authorities | Clark Atlanta University Police, Atlanta Police Department, FBI |
| Similar Incidents | University of Georgia, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and others |
| Public Advisory | Report suspicious activity to law enforcement |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Clark Atlanta University Investigates False Active Shooter Reports
False Active Shooter Reports at Clark Atlanta University
False Active Shooter Reports Lead to Shelter-in-Place at Clark Atlanta University
FBI Investigates Surge of Hoax Emergency Calls in Georgia
Bomb Threat Declared Safe at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Bomb Threat Investigation at Hughes Spalding Hospital
Additional Resources
- WSB TV: Shelter-in-place Issued at Clark Atlanta University
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Active Shooter Hoax Calls Prompt FBI Investigation
- 11Alive: Clark Atlanta University Active Shooter Reports Considered a Hoax
- Wikipedia: Active Shooter
- CNN: Active Shooter at Emory University
- Google Search: Active Shooter Hoaxes
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.
