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Mercer University Macon Campus Declared Safe After ‘Active Threat’ Alert
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Mercer University Macon Campus Declared Safe After ‘Active Threat’ Alert
Macon-Bibb County, Ga. — Mercer University’s Macon campus was placed under a shelter-in-place order Wednesday afternoon after an “active threat” alert was issued. Authorities have since confirmed there was no active shooter and declared the campus safe.
Macon Campus Declared Safe After ‘Active Threat’ Alert
At approximately 12:16 p.m., Mercer University sent out an emergency alert notifying students, faculty, and staff of “an active threat reported on the Macon campus.” The university instructed everyone on campus to shelter in place while law enforcement investigated.
The alert caused heightened concern across the community, with many fearing the situation could involve an active shooter.
Law Enforcement Responds Quickly
According to Mercer University’s media contact, Jennifer Fairfield Williams, the alert was triggered after a threat was phoned in. In response, local law enforcement and campus security immediately began sweeping the campus to ensure there was no danger.
Linda Howard, spokesperson for the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed on the scene that this was not an active shooter situation. She reassured the public that the “all clear” had been given and that the threat was no longer active.
Students and Community React
The emergency message led to tense moments on campus, with students and staff following safety protocols and remaining indoors. While some described the experience as “nerve-wracking,” many expressed relief at the quick response from university officials and law enforcement.
Recent False Threats at Local Campuses
This incident comes just weeks after Central Georgia Technical College in Macon also faced a similar scare, when multiple false threats of an active shooter were reported. Authorities have urged the community to remain vigilant but also stressed that false reports can cause unnecessary panic and drain resources.
Campus Declared Safe
By early afternoon, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Mercer University’s Macon campus was safe, lifting the shelter-in-place order. No injuries were reported, and classes are expected to resume as normal.
University officials are working closely with law enforcement to determine the source of the phoned-in threat.
Developing Story
This is still a developing story. Mercer University and law enforcement agencies are expected to release further details as the investigation continues.
Stay with WGXA News for updates on the situation.