Charlottesville, VA – A bomb threat reported at the Edgar Shannon Library at the University of Virginia triggered an evacuation and a police investigation Friday morning. The University of Virginia Police Department (UVAPD) first notified students around 10:49 a.m. Of the threat, prompting immediate action to secure the area. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges universities face in ensuring campus safety and responding to potential threats.
Authorities are currently asking individuals to avoid both the Edgar Shannon Library and the adjacent Clemons Library as officers investigate the situation. The initial report prompted a swift response, with police on scene by 11:14 a.m. And a request for the evacuation of both library buildings. As of 11:28 a.m., police continue to secure the area and urge the public to stay clear. The incident highlights the importance of rapid response protocols in potential emergency situations.
Evacuation and Police Response
The UVAPD’s prompt notification to students demonstrates the university’s commitment to prioritizing student safety. The evacuation of both the Edgar Shannon and Clemons libraries suggests a precautionary approach, expanding the safety perimeter while the investigation unfolds. The Edgar Shannon Library, a central hub for the University’s social sciences and humanities collections, as well as housing several research centers, is a significant location on the UVA Grounds. More information about the Edgar Shannon Library can be found on the UVA Library website.
The library’s connection to Clemons Library via an internal passage likely contributed to the decision to evacuate both buildings, ensuring a comprehensive safety measure. The presence of the Charlottesville Fire Department assisting UVA Police indicates a coordinated emergency response effort. WSLS 10 News first reported the incident, detailing the timeline of events and the initial response.
Previous Security Incidents at UVA
This incident comes less than a year after a false report of an armed attacker at the Shannon Library in November 2025. According to WVIR, UVA Police Chief Tim Longo stated there was no evidence to support that earlier claim, emphasizing the challenges of verifying information during emergency situations. That previous incident involved a thorough investigation but ultimately revealed no credible threat. The recent bomb threat underscores the need for continued vigilance and refined emergency response procedures.
UVA Police investigated a false report of an attack on Grounds in November 2025, as reported by Yahoo News. That investigation also yielded no evidence of an actual attack, highlighting the potential for misinformation to disrupt campus life and strain emergency resources. The frequency of these incidents raises questions about the sources of these false reports and the measures that can be taken to prevent them.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
As of 11:28 a.m. On Friday, March 13, 2026, the investigation remains active. Authorities have not yet released any information regarding the nature of the threat or potential suspects. The focus remains on securing the libraries and ensuring the safety of students, faculty and staff. Times Now News is also following the developing situation.
The University of Virginia Police Department is expected to provide updates as the investigation progresses. The community is encouraged to monitor official UVA channels for the latest information and to cooperate fully with law enforcement officials. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting any suspicious activity to authorities immediately.
What comes next will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation. Authorities will likely focus on identifying the source of the threat and determining whether any criminal charges are warranted. The university will also likely review its emergency response procedures to identify any areas for improvement.
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