San Antonio, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Students at the University of Texas at San Antonio faced evacuations due to false threats just days into the new semester. The situation turned tense as the campus police responded to reported threats, which were later found to be uncredible ‘swatting’ incidents. Although students were able to return to their normal activities after the all-clear notification, the emotional impact of the event raised concerns about student safety and well-being. The university has since increased police presence and made counseling services available to those affected.
San Antonio Students Face Evacuations Due to False Threats
In a surprising and tense start to the fall semester, students at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) found themselves facing an unexpected evacuation. Just two days into the new academic year, the campus experienced two separate threats that had students rushing out of their dorms and classes late on Tuesday, August 26. The atmosphere quickly transformed from excitement about new beginnings to one of panic and uncertainty.
As the clock struck 9:53 p.m., university police alerted students through messages that there was police activity near the Main Campus. Initially, the notice was clear: steer clear of the Main Building. Shortly after, concerns heightened, leading to a follow-up alert instructing students to evacuate housing due to an “active/credible threat.” Momentarily, joyous chatter about the new semester morphed into hurried footsteps and anxious faces.
Students took to social media, with many sharing their feelings on platforms like TikTok. Videos captured large groups of students, some in pajamas or clutching their backpacks, as they evacuated the buildings. The specter of a bomb threat loomed large, with students struggling to process the situation.
Fortunately, it was later determined that the threats were part of what’s known as “swatting”, where false reports are made to provoke a large law enforcement response. The university police clarified that both incidents—one around the Main Building and the other concerning campus housing—were found to be not credible. They acted out of an abundance of caution, which is important when dealing with potential threats on campus.
After the situation was resolved, students received an all-clear notification, allowing them to resume their regular activities. Yet, the emotional toll of such incidents shouldn’t be overlooked, particularly for first-year students who were already navigating the challenges of college life in a new environment.
Maintaining safety and security is a priority for UTSA. Enhanced police presence has been instituted across the campus following the evacuations. Students who felt unsettled by the events have access to counseling services to help manage the anxiety stemming from the threats. Experts have warned that such occurrences can hinder students’ focus and overall ability to learn.
It’s worth noting that similar hoax threats have occurred at universities across the nation in recent weeks, indicating a troubling trend. Community members are now calling for clearer communication from university officials during such emergencies, as students expressed a common desire for timely updates to alleviate confusion.
While the start to the semester was unconventional and unnerving, everyone is hopeful that the university can move forward from this incident and work towards ensuring a safe and stress-free environment for all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the evacuations at UTSA?
The evacuations were triggered by two false threats on campus that were later identified as “swatting” incidents.
Were the threats real?
No, the university police determined that both threats were not credible after a thorough investigation.
What should students do if they feel stressed after the incident?
Students are encouraged to seek counseling services available on campus for support.
How is UTSA ensuring student safety after the incident?
UTSA has increased police presence across campus as a precautionary measure.
What is “swatting”?
Swatting refers to the act of making a false report to law enforcement to trigger a substantial police response, often involving threats of violence or emergencies.
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Additional Resources
- San Antonio Express-News
- KENS 5
- Austin American-Statesman
- KHOU 11
- Fox San Antonio
- Wikipedia: Swatting
- Google Search: UTSA bomb threat
- Google Scholar: swatting university incidents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University
- Google News: UTSA false threats
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