University of New Hampshire (UNH) Police are working with state and federal authorities after a hoax active shooter report briefly alarmed the campus community on the evening of Monday, August 25.
According to a campus-wide message from UNH Police Chief Steven P. Lee, the incident was part of a national wave of false reports targeting colleges and universities since the start of the academic year. The hoax calls, often referred to as “swatting,” are designed to disrupt campus operations and cause fear.
Just before 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 25, the Strafford County Sheriff’s Office received a call reporting an active shooter at the Dimond Library. UNH and Durham police responded in less than two minutes and quickly confirmed there was no threat.
“Since the information was almost immediately being circulated about the initial calls on social media, we sent an emergency alert immediately, letting our community know the report was a hoax,” Lee wrote.
These false threats have also been occurring at other universities, some being on the same day. An article by New York Times stated, “Twice in the final weeks of August, Villanova University responded to reports of a gunman on campus, which later the authorities determined to be false. On Aug. 25, at least six colleges, including the University of Arkansas, experienced lockdowns for similar threats that turned out to be bogus. And on Wednesday, the false alarms continued at Auburn University in Alabama and Texas Tech University.”
Investigations are ongoing with assistance from state, federal, and campus law enforcement agencies. In his message, Lee noted there have been reports that the activity is a coordinated national effort.
Lee encouraged students, faculty, and staff to review their emergency alert settings or sign up for both text and email notifications, noting that system upgrades may require some users to re-enter their mobile numbers. These alerts are used to quickly share information about emergencies such as severe weather, crime, or building evacuations.
Community members with questions about personal safety planning, campus escorts, or building access after-hours are encouraged to contact UNH Police at 603-862-1427.
“Our community’s safety is our top priority,” Lee wrote.
