UGA emergency alert: Report of armed shooter 'evidence suggests a hoax'

The University of Georgia said a report of an armed shooter at the Athens campus’ Main Library appears to be "a hoax."

The school communicated that in an emergency alert at 9:34 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29.

"Police are on scene at library, at this time evidence suggests a hoax. Please continue to avoid this area. First responders are on the scene."

That followed an inital emergency alert at 8:51 p.m. about a report of an armed shooter at the library at 320 S. Jackson Street.

By 9:20, Georgia State Patrol was on the scene without lights on, according to Athens Banner-Herald photographer Joshua Jones.

At nearby Clarke Central High School, the team’s game with Jefferson High was disrupted, with both teams going to the sideline and referees, coaches and athletic directors talking at midfield.