In a terrifying moment that sent shockwaves across Morgantown, West Virginia University was thrust into chaos this afternoon after a swatting hoax falsely reported an active shooter on campus. 
Sirens echoed through campus as emergency alerts flooded student phones, instructing everyone to shelter in place. Many barricaded themselves inside classrooms and study rooms, while others scrambled for cover, fearing the worst. Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion and fear as police swarmed the area with weapons drawn, only to later determine there was no credible threat.
University officials quickly confirmed the report was a hoax, calling it a “malicious and reckless act” that endangered lives and disrupted the entire campus. WVU Police, along with Morgantown PD and state authorities, are now working to trace the source of the fake call, which they say will be investigated as a serious criminal offense.
By late afternoon, the lockdown was lifted, but the emotional toll lingered. Students took to social media expressing both relief and anger, demanding accountability and better safety measures.
For now, the WVU community is shaken but united — grateful that no one was harmed, yet determined to ensure such a frightening ordeal never happens again.
