CNA Staff, Aug 21, 2025 / 19:07 pm

Villanova University confirmed Thursday that reports of an active shooter on campus that interrupted an opening Mass for new students and their families was a “cruel hoax.”

Local police began investigating reports of an active shooter on campus late Thursday afternoon. The Augustinian Catholic institution in Philadelphia is the alma mater of Pope Leo XIV.

Students received an alert about an active shooting incident at 4:35 p.m. ET during the opening Mass at Rowen Campus Green — a welcome Mass set to be followed by a family picnic.

Families and students were rushed into campus buildings, interrupting the annual orientation Mass. Across campus and in neighboring areas, law enforcement instructed families, students, and residents to shelter in place.

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