At least five Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were placed on lockdown or canceled classes Thursday after receiving “terroristic” threats. The institutions affected included Alabama State University, Virginia State University, Hampton University, Southern University, and Bethune-Cookman University.
The FBI has since deemed the threats a “hoax,” stating, “We have no information to indicate a credible threat.” Authorities continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with campus officials to ensure student safety.
Two of the of the HBCUs that were targeted on Thursday, September 11th were based in the state of Virginia – Hampton University and Virginia State University; Photo Credit: Rob Ostermaier/AP and Eric Kolenich/Richmond Times-Dispatch
Alabama State University, Virginia State University, and Hampton University reopened their campuses after officials determined it was safe to do so. Southern University and A&M College will remain closed until Sept. 14th, while there is currently no update regarding Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida.
Alabama State University, Bethune-Cookman University, and Southern University were also under lockdown following the threat; Photo Credit: Mickey Welsh/The Montgomery Advertiser, Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images, and Southern University
Despite the all-clear, many campuses remain on high alert. School and law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of vigilance and community support in the wake of these threats.
