Villanova University said news of a possible shooter at its law school was a “cruel hoax,” after it issued an alert warning of an active shooter on its Pennsylvania campus.
“Mercifully, no one was injured, and we now know that it was a cruel hoax — there was no active shooter, no injuries and no evidence of firearms present on campus,” Villanova President Rev. Peter Donohue said in statement. “While that is a blessing and a relief, I know today’s events have shaken our entire community.”
In this screen shot from a video, law enforcement officials are shown at the scene of a shooting at Villanova University, Aug. 21, 2025.
WPVI
The incident sparked a large police response, with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said local and federal law enforcement were on site responded to the reports of an active shooter.
The school had told students to stay clear of Law School Scarpa Hall and lock and barricade doors while police conducted sweeps of the campus.
In this screen shot from a video, law enforcement officials are shown at the scene of a shooting at Villanova University, Aug. 21, 2025.
WPVI
The Radnor Township Police Department, which responded to the campus, said in an update that there were no reported victims, as officers continued to clear buildings.
“IF YOU ARE SHELTERING – STAY IN PLACE UNTIL A POLICE OFFICER GUIDES YOU,” the Radnor Township Police Department said on X.
In this screen shot from a video, law enforcement officials are shown at the scene of a shooting at Villanova University, Aug. 21, 2025.
WPVI
Amid the active investigation, Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer told reporters officers were searching buildings.
“We are going to get to the bottom of this,” he said.
The campus is located approximately 12 miles northwest of Philadelphia’s Center City.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Source: abc news
