Did active shooter invade University of Arkansas? Here’s what the police say
Police respond to reports of an active shooter at the University of Arkansas’ Mullins Library, later confirmed to be unfounded.
A tense situation unfolded on the University of Arkansas campus Monday afternoon after police received multiple reports of an active shooter near David W. Mullins Library. Authorities have since stated that no evidence supports those claims.
According to officials, the first call came in around 12:30 p.m., prompting a swift response from both the University of Arkansas Police Department (UAPD) and Fayetteville Police Department (FPD). Multiple agencies joined the effort, securing campus buildings and surrounding areas while investigating the reports.
Despite the large police presence, authorities confirmed that there have been no gunshots, no injuries, and no suspects identified. As of 2:10 p.m., no official “all clear” had been issued, though police emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing.
The heightened security measures had a ripple effect across Fayetteville. A nearby Neighborhood Walmart on MLK Boulevard was temporarily locked down, while Fayetteville Public Schools briefly went under a shelter-in-place order before lifting it. Farmington Public Schools also issued a shelter-in-place directive out of caution, but assured parents that students and staff were safe and that classroom activities continued without disruption.
Students on campus described moments of confusion and fear as alerts circulated. University junior Brock Boddie said he was inside Mullins Library when he heard shouting and movement before receiving a university alert on his phone. Armed officers soon arrived, escorting students out of the building and into safer locations.
Authorities are continuing to clear buildings and investigate the origin of the reports. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said all updates will be released through UAPD and FPD as the situation develops.
In a statement, the Fayetteville Arkansas Police Department wrote on Facebook:
UPDATE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS: “After investigating multiple reports, police have not confirmed any active threats on campus at this time. Avoid, deny, defend protocols have been lifted at this time while police continue to patrol campus, but please be vigilant. Due to today’s events, classes are cancelled for the remainder of day, but will resume Tuesday. Students are free to leave campus at this time if desired. Housing and most dining services remain open. Razorback Transit plans to continue routes.”
In another update, the police said:
At approximately 12:30 PM this afternoon, the Fayetteville Police Department was called to assist the University of Arkansas Police Department at a report of an active shooter at David W Mullins Library on the University of Arkansas campus.
Multiple agencies responded. Since the original call, multiple calls at multiple locations around the university have come in. As of now, there are no confirmed gunshots, no confirmed injuries, no known suspects, and no arrests have been made.
We are following up on every call and investigating every lead. Safety of all students, faculty, and our community is our top priority.