CHATTANOOGA, TN – A massive law enforcement response was triggered at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) on Thursday following a 911 call reporting a possible active shooter, leading to a campus-wide lockdown and widespread fear among students and staff. After a tense search lasting about an hour and a half, authorities gave the “all clear,” confirming that no threat, shooter, or victims were found. All classes and activities for the remainder of the day were canceled.
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How the Incident Unfolded
The situation began at 12:42 p.m. when UTC issued an alert to students and staff warning of a “Possible active shooter in University Center or library” and advising them to “Run, hide, fight”. Multiple agencies, including Chattanooga Police, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee State Troopers, and the FBI, swarmed the campus, blocking off roads and securing buildings.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing students being escorted out of the university library by officers with guns drawn who told them, “This is not a drill”. Students on campus described being ushered into secure offices and back rooms by staff while they awaited updates. One student told News Channel 9 they were “nervous for my friends” and that the experience was “surreal.”
Official Confirmation: No Violent Act Occurred
In a subsequent press conference, UTC Police Chief Sean O’Brien confirmed the incident began with a 911 call at 12:29 p.m. regarding an armed individual. He stated definitively that after a thorough search, “no threat was identified or located,” no injuries were recorded, and no one was detained.
When asked if the call may have been a hoax, officials stated that the circumstances behind it are now under active investigation by UTC police, Chattanooga police, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI. Officials emphasized that their initial response to such calls will always be treated as a real threat because “lives depend on it.” Chief O’Brien also praised the students for their “very measured and calm manner” during the evacuation.
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