At a Glance
- Villanova University closed its campus Thursday after a threat of violence was received.
- The FBI, along with federal, state, and local law enforcement, is investigating the alert.
- All campus activities were canceled for the day, and additional police presence has been deployed.
Why it matters: The university’s decision to shut down protects students, faculty, and staff while authorities determine the threat’s credibility.
Campus Closure After a Threat
Villanova University shut down its campus on Thursday morning following a notification that a threat of violence had been directed at an academic building. The university’s public safety department immediately engaged the FBI, state police, and local authorities to investigate the alert.
The university released a statement to students early in the morning. The letter read: “Early this morning, the University received a threat of violence targeted at an academic building. The FBI is actively investigating, and our Public Safety department has engaged with federal, state, and local law enforcement to investigate. While we are ascertaining the validity of the threat, out of an abundance of caution, the University will be closed today, and all activities are canceled. Residential students are advised to stay in their residence hall. Non-residential students should not come to campus. All faculty and staff should not report. Given the threat, there will be additional police presence on campus to ensure the safety of the community.”
The university also posted a notice on its website that the campus would remain closed for the day.
Law Enforcement Response
The FBI is leading the investigation into the threat, working alongside local police and the university’s own security forces. While the details of the threat remain undisclosed, officials confirmed that the alert was taken seriously and that a comprehensive review of security protocols was underway.
The university’s public safety department increased patrols and set up additional checkpoints around the campus perimeter. Officers are monitoring all entrances and have coordinated with nearby municipal police to provide a layered security presence.
Guidance for Students and Faculty
- Residential students are instructed to stay in their dormitories and avoid leaving the campus until further notice.
- Non-residential students and visitors are advised not to enter the campus.
- Faculty and staff are asked not to report to work and to remain at home or in a safe location.
- The university will provide updates at 9 a.m. with more information on the threat and any changes to the campus status.
In a brief release, the university emphasized that the safety of the community is its top priority and that additional resources are being deployed to ensure a secure environment.
University Communication Channels
The university used multiple channels to inform the community. Students received an email with the statement. The university’s website displayed a closure notice. The public safety department posted updates on social media and its official website.
Public Safety Department Actions
The department increased patrols around campus. Checkpoints were set up at all main entrances. Officers coordinated with local police to provide a layered security presence. The department also monitored communication lines for any new information.
Threat Details
The threat was described as a “threat of violence” aimed at an academic building. No additional details about the source or intent were released. The FBI is actively investigating the alert.
Impact on Academic Schedule
All scheduled classes and events for the day were canceled. The university has not announced a revised academic calendar. Students and faculty are advised to check the university website for any changes.
Community Response
Local residents and nearby businesses were notified of the campus closure. The university’s public safety department has maintained open lines of communication with the local community to address concerns.
Future Updates
The university committed to providing further information at 9 a.m. The next update will include details about the threat’s validity and any changes to campus operations.
Next Steps for Investigation
Law enforcement officials will continue to assess the threat. The FBI will determine whether the alert is credible. The university will adjust its safety measures based on investigative findings.
Timeline of Events
| Date & Time | Event |
|---|---|
| Thursday, early morning | Threat of violence reported to the university |
| Thursday, early morning | FBI and local law enforcement begin investigation |
| Thursday, 9 a.m. | Official statement released to students and staff |
| Thursday, all day | Campus remains closed; additional police presence on site |
Key Takeaways
- Villanova University is closed after a threat of violence was received.
- The FBI is conducting an investigation with support from state and local law enforcement.
- All campus activities are canceled, and additional police presence is on site.
- Updates will be provided at 9 a.m. and as the investigation progresses.
By keeping the campus closed and bolstering security, Villanova University is prioritizing the safety of its students, faculty, and staff while authorities work to determine the validity of the threat.
News Of Philadelphia is working to learn more.
