UTC Campus Declares All Clear After Possible Active Shooter Threat
Photo Courtesy of News Channel 9
In The Know with Gino…
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga experienced a tense lockdown this afternoon following reports of a possible active shooter on campus. The situation was resolved, with authorities confirming that no threat was found.
The incident unfolded around 1 p.m., when UTC’s official social media accounts issued alerts warning of a potential threat. At 1:03 p.m., the UTC X account posted, “UTC ALERT: Possible active shooter in the University Center or Library. Run. Hide. Fight. More info forthcoming.”
Law enforcement officials responded swiftly, and by 1:40 p.m., the UTC X account provided an update: “UTC-ALERT: Law enforcement is completing a search of the campus. No threat has been identified at this time.”
Chattanooga Police Department confirmed they received reports of gunfire but had not located any injured individuals or confirmed an active shooter. The department also announced that all Chattanooga city government buildings were placed on lockdown as a precaution.
During the investigation, police evacuated students and staff from the campus library, instructing them to remain sheltered as officers searched the building. Officers repeatedly reassured those evacuated that the situation was under control, emphasizing, “This is not a drill.”
Meanwhile, employees at Erlanger Hospital were notified of limited access to the emergency room, indicating heightened alert throughout the city’s emergency response network.
A UTC freshman described the scene, saying students were asked to shelter in place while law enforcement conducted their search. The university’s social media later confirmed that the campus was safe: “The UTC campus is ALL CLEAR. The lockdown has been lifted. Law enforcement found no evidence of a threat. All classes & activities are canceled until 8/22 at 8:00 a.m. Students and non-essential staff may leave campus for the day.”
The Chattanooga Police Department and university officials emphasized that no injuries or evidence of a threat were uncovered. The incident prompted swift action from campus security and local law enforcement, highlighting the importance of preparedness and rapid response in ensuring student safety.
SOURCES: Chattanoogan, Chattanooga Police Department, News Channel 9, and Local 3
