USC Active Shooter Hoax: Umbrella Photo Explained
USC Active Shooter EXPOSED: Swatting Hoax — Viral “Umbrella” Photo Debunked
Update: University of South Carolina police say the campus “active shooter” alert was triggered by a swatting hoax near Thomas Cooper Library. A widely shared photo of a student holding a long, dark object turned out to be an umbrella, and the student had no role in the hoax, according to officials.
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What Happened
- USC Police received two calls around 6:30 p.m. reporting gunfire at Thomas Cooper Library, with fake gunfire audio in the background.
- A campus-wide alert went out; later, police said there was no evidence of a shooter. “All clear” followed after the search.
- Two students had minor injuries related to evacuation; no shots were fired.
- The viral image circulating online showed a student carrying an umbrella—not a firearm. The student was not involved in the hoax.
Viral Image (Source)
Context: Swatting Trend on Campuses
The incident mirrors a wider spate of swatting hoaxes at colleges in recent days, prompting heavy police responses and campus disruptions.
Official & Source Material
- Reporting & timeline: SC Daily Gazette — “A swatting hoax prompted active shooter alert at USC”
- Viral image reference: @CarolinaScanner on X
Safety Note
In any emergency alert, follow official guidance: Avoid the area, Shelter if instructed, and rely on verified updates from university and law enforcement channels.