On August 21, what began as a threatening text message turned into complete chaos at Villanova University in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Students were tripping over chairs, stumbling over their peers, and laying low in order to reduce their chance of being the target of the alleged shooter on campus that had texted a message stating their desire to bring a gun onto campus. A student described their feelings of complete confusion and claimed their adrenaline was the only thing keeping them going. However, as of today, law enforcement has looked further into the situation and determined that the threat has proved to be a hoax.

It’s incredibly important to be mindful of the things posted online, sent to friends, or said over a phone call — just one wrong word can change the route of the conversation. Threats are never something to throw around, no matter the context or legitimacy of the words said. Reporting suspicious behavior can be crucial to the safety of every community.