Chattanooga, TN, August 27, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga enacted a lockdown after receiving reports of a possible active shooter on campus. Law enforcement responded swiftly, searching areas such as the University Center and Library. After nearly an hour, authorities confirmed no threat was present, lifting the lockdown. All classes were canceled for the day, ensuring the safety of students and staff. Updates from the university emphasized adherence to emergency protocols during the incident.
UTC Campus Experiences Lockdown After False Active Shooter Report
Chattanooga, TN – The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) enacted a lockdown on August 21, following reports of a possible active shooter on campus. The lockdown lasted nearly an hour as local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies responded to the concerning situation.
At approximately 1 p.m., UTC received notifications regarding a potential active shooter believed to be located in the University Center or the Library. In light of the alarming report, students and faculty were instructed to follow emergency protocols known as “Run. Hide. Fight.”
By 1:45 p.m., UTC officials reassured the campus community through social media that “no threat has been identified at this time.” Following a meticulous search by law enforcement, no victims or shooter were discovered on campus.
The lockdown was officially lifted just before 2 p.m., with the university confirming that law enforcement found no evidence of any threat. An all-clear message was distributed, stating, “The UTC campus is ALL CLEAR. The lockdown has been lifted.”
In light of the incident, all classes and activities were canceled for the remainder of the day and will remain suspended until 8 a.m. on August 22. Students and non-essential employees were allowed to exit the campus once the lockdown was concluded.
Throughout the situation, heavy police presence was noted, with videos captured by students showing individuals huddled in classrooms while awaiting guidance. The Hamilton County Emergency Management Service reported that various law enforcement agencies had thoroughly cleared the campus and confirmed that “no suspect or victims found.”
Background on UTC
Founded in 1886, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is a public university that now serves nearly 12,000 students as of the fall semester in 2024. UTC is part of the larger University of Tennessee system and has a history of prioritizing campus safety and community well-being.
As this incident develops, the university promises to update its community with new information to ensure the safety of all individuals associated with UTC.
FAQ Section
What caused the UTC campus to go on lockdown?
The lockdown was triggered by a report of a possible active shooter on campus, which led to a coordinated response by law enforcement.
How long did the lockdown last?
The lockdown lasted for nearly an hour, from around 1 p.m. until just before 2 p.m.
What steps did the university take during the incident?
UTC instructed students and faculty to follow emergency procedures called “Run. Hide. Fight” while law enforcement conducted a thorough search of the campus.
What was the outcome of the law enforcement investigation?
Law enforcement found no evidence of a threat, no victims, and no suspect on campus following their investigation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga University Responds to False Active Shooter Report
Chattanooga University Lockdown Amid Shooter Report
Chattanooga University Locks Down Over False Shooter Alert
Additional Resources
- Knox News
- Wikipedia: Active shooter
- USA Today
- Google Search: University of Tennessee Chattanooga lockdown
- WBIR
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Active shooter incident
- Local 3 News
- Google News: UTC shooting incident
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
