Villanova says a report of a campus shooter was a ‘cruel hoax’

UPDATE — A report of a shooter on Villanova University’s campus was a “cruel hoax,” the school’s president said Thursday.

“There was no active shooter, no injuries, and no evidence of firearms on campus,” the Rev. Peter M. Donohue said in an emailed statement.

Authorities are investigating reports of an active shooter Thursday evening on the campus of Villanova University — located about 15 miles outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

"The [Pennsylvania State Police] and local and federal law enforcement are onsite at Villanova University responding to reports of an active shooter," Gov. Josh Shapiro said in a statement. "Avoid the area and follow the direction of local authorities."

Students and people in the area are being urged to shelter in place and to lock and barricade all doors