Villanova University active shooter report sparks campus alert

An active shooter report at Villanova University triggered a campus-wide alert.

On the afternoon of August 21, 2025, Villanova University in Pennsylvania received multiple reports of an active shooter at the Charles Widger School of Law.

The reports included claims of a person carrying a firearm and possible gunfire sounds, prompting the university to issue an immediate shelter-in-place order.

Students and staff were advised to lock and barricade doors while law enforcement responded.

Authorities from Delaware County, the Pennsylvania State Police, and federal agencies quickly arrived on campus.

After a thorough search, officials confirmed that no shooting had occurred, no victims were present, and no firearms were found.

Villanova University President Rev. Peter Donohue addressed the community, describing the incident as a "cruel hoax" and acknowledging the fear and disruption it caused, particularly during the school’s orientation Mass.

He assured students, staff, and families that the situation had been resolved safely.

The incident has prompted an investigation to identify those responsible for the false report. Officials emphasized the serious consequences of such hoaxes, which divert law enforcement resources and create unnecessary panic.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the hoax to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.