TAMPA, Fla. – The University of South Florida's Tampa campus was the scene of heightened alert on Saturday after a report of a person with a firearm surfaced. University authorities and law enforcement responded swiftly to investigate the situation.
According to the university's ALERTUSF emergency alert system, an initial report indicated an individual on the Tampa campus possessed a firearm. However, a subsequent update confirmed that police investigated the report and determined there was no immediate threat to the campus community.
"ALERTUSF: Tampa: There was a report of an individual on Tampa campus with a firearm. Police have investigated and there is no threat to campus," the alert stated.
This incident, unfortunately, appears to be part of a disturbing trend of false active shooter reports targeting universities across the nation. Law enforcement is investigating the incident as a possible "swatting" event, where a false report is made to provoke a large police response.
An online group known as Purgatory has previously claimed responsibility for similar hoax alerts earlier in the week, as reported by Wired. However, it remains unclear whether this group is connected to the incident at USF.
The University of South Florida is urging students, faculty, and staff to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to campus security or local authorities. The university is also working with law enforcement to identify and apprehend those responsible for the false report.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges universities face in maintaining a safe and secure environment in the face of evolving threats. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.