Chattanooga, August 27, 2025

News Summary

A false active shooter report led to a lockdown at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, causing a temporary safety alert for the campus. Fortunately, thorough investigations revealed no evidence of any threats. The incident unfolded after a 911 call suggested shots were fired, prompting a response from multiple law enforcement agencies. The lockdown, which lasted just over an hour, prioritized student and staff safety, with classes canceled as counseling services were made available for those affected.

Chattanooga Responds to False Active Shooter Report at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) experienced a tense situation on August 21 as authorities responded to a reported active shooter incident that prompted a lockdown across the campus. Following thorough investigations, police officials confirmed there was no evidence of any threat.

The university community was alerted around 1 p.m. to the possibility of an active shooter in the University Center or library, leading to the issuance of a safety alert recommending students to “Run. Hide. Fight.” A call to 911 reporting shots fired with a rifle was received by Hamilton County dispatch at approximately 12:29 p.m. ET.

In response, the Chattanooga Police Department, alongside university police, mobilized to determine the validity of the reports. Their comprehensive search of campus facilities produced no victims or shooter. The lockdown affected not only UTC but also all City of Chattanooga government buildings, heightening public safety apprehensions.

The lockdown, which persisted for over an hour, was finally lifted at 1:40 p.m. UTC officials subsequently canceled all classes and activities until 8 a.m. on August 22, prioritizing the well-being of students and staff. After the restrictions were lifted, students and non-essential personnel were permitted to leave campus.

Chattanooga Police Chief John Chambers underscored the critical nature of responding to all active shooter calls to ensure community safety. Meanwhile, UTC Chancellor Dr. Lori Mann Bruce recognized the effectiveness of students’ safety protocols during the situation. To assist those affected by the incident, counseling services will be made available at the university’s counseling center in the following days.

Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and Tennessee Highway Patrol, participated in the incident response, showcasing a united effort to manage the situation effectively. The initial 911 call regarding the purported active shooter originated from the UTC Art Department, situated about 0.2 miles from the library, though investigators have not disclosed any further details regarding the motive or source of the call.

Key Details of the Incident

• Date and Time: August 21, 12:29 p.m. ET – 1:40 p.m. ET
• Location: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
• Response Teams: Chattanooga Police, UTC Police, FBI, Tennessee Highway Patrol
• Outcome: No shooter or victims found; lockdown lifted after one hour
• Subsequent Actions: Classes canceled until 8 a.m. August 22; counseling services offered

Background Context

Active shooter incidents have become a concern for educational institutions, often instigating heightened measures for campus security. Following numerous incidents across the United States in recent years, both universities and local law enforcement agencies have implemented strict protocols to respond to such alarming events and maintain safety. The UTC incident reflects the serious nature of these protocols and the high priority placed on public safety by all involved parties.

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Additional Resources

• The Tennessean
• Fox 5 Atlanta
• Knox News
• USA Today
• NewsChannel 5
• Wikipedia: Active Shooter
• Google Search: University of Tennessee Chattanooga active shooter
• Google Scholar: Active Shooter Response Protocols
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Active Shooter
• Google News: UTC shooting Aug 21 2025

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.