ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ investigating hoax after report of shots fired
The ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ was the latest target in a string of hoaxes directed at campuses around the country with false active-harmer reports.Ìý
The ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ Police Department (CUPD) has determined there was and is no threat to campus.Ìý
For ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ, the Monday, Aug. 25, swatting incident resulted in a campus disruption for more than three hours beginning shortly before 5 p.m. Swatting involves a fake emergency call that activates first responders and is designed to create havoc, fear and confusion.
A shelter-in-place order was issued for all of Main Campus, including Norlin Library and Sewall Hall, where the threat was initially reported. Affected buildings were searched and cleared by 8:18 p.m. and police are investigating the incident as a hoax.ÌýÌý
Shortly before 5 p.m., emergency services received a report from an individual who claimed to be at Sewall Hall and heard gunshots coming from the direction of Norlin Library. There were no findings of injuries or any suspect.
CUPD, the Boulder Police Department, the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office and the Boulder Fire Department responded. A heavy police presence remained in the area for the evening. The campus community will continue to notice increased visibility of CUPD officers at residence halls and Norlin Library in upcoming days.
Anyone who left personal property inside Norlin Library is being instructed to meet CUPD officers at the east-side doors of the library to be escorted inside and retrieve their belongings until 11 p.m. this evening. Norlin Library will remain closed for the night and reopen for normal business hours tomorrow, Tuesday, Aug. 26. If you are unable to retrieve your belongings tonight, go to the security office located at room M298 on the second floor of Norlin Library during normal business hours tomorrow.
For more information, visitÌý. For support from the Office of Victim Assistance, Counseling and Psychiatric Services, the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program and other services, visitÌýcampus resources.
ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ has resources available for students, faculty and staff who need support in the wake of a traumatic incident such as this.
• The Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) () provides free, confidential trauma-specific counseling and advocacy/support to individuals who have experienced/witnessed a potentially traumatic or life disruptive event. OVA offers 24/7 phone support at 303-492-8855.
• Counseling and Psychiatric Services () (CAPS) provides free, confidential mental health services for students to address a variety of needs and incidents. CAPS offers 24/7 phone support at 303-492-2277.
• Faculty and Staff Assistance Program () (FSAP) offers free and confidential counseling and consulting services to employees, both in-person and via telehealth during business hours. FSAP can be reached at or 303-492-3020