UGA targeted by swatting incident

The following was issued today by the University of Georgia

At approximately 8:51 p.m. on August 29, the University of Georgia alert system was activated following reports of an armed shooter near UGA’s main library. PUGA Police responded immediately and found, upon further investigation, the report was a hoax.

The initial hoax report shared similar characteristics with other swatting incidents occurring nationwide. By utilizing campus security cameras, combined with the quick response from officers scouring the area, UGA Police were able to verify that there was no active threat. An all-clear update was issued to campus at 10:40 p.m.

We strongly condemn hoax reports and swatting attempts. These false reports cause unnecessary fear and divert critical emergency resources. Making such a false report is not a harmless prank—it is a dangerous and unlawful act.

The University of Georgia will continue to investigate this incident in cooperation with state and federal law enforcement, and we urge anyone with information about this crime to report it immediately to law enforcement by contacting UGA Police at 706-542-5813.

Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our campus community. Student Care and Outreach members are offering support to those at the library and have additional counselors available to assist students affected by this trauma. Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) is also available 24/7 and able to assist students. UGA employees may access counseling services through the Employee Assistance Program available 24/7.