All clear given at Miami University after report of gunfire

Police have given the all clear at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, after a report of gunfire led to an "active threat situation" alert on Thursday afternoon. The incident, which prompted emergency notifications to students and staff, was resolved when officers determined the source of the noise was fireworks.

Initial Alerts and Response

The emergency response began when Miami University issued a RedHawk Alert warning of an "active threat situation" on the Oxford campus. According to WLWT, the initial alert was sent at around 2 p.m. EDT, urging students and staff to follow emergency safety protocols. The alert stated: "RedHawk Alert: EMERGENCY: An ACTIVE THREAT has been reported on the OXFORD Campus. RUN/HIDE/FIGHT! Whether you choose to run, hide or fight, be prepared to face a life threatening situation. Updates to follow."

Approximately 10 minutes later, a follow-up alert identified the specific location of the reported threat. "RedHawk Alert: EMERGENCY - An active threat situation has been reported in the area of McGuffey hall. Avoid this area. RUN/HIDE/FIGHT! Updates to follow," the second alert read. McGuffey Hall is located off McGuffey Drive and serves as the home to Miami University's College of Education, Health and Society.

Investigation and All-Clear

Officers checked the building and the surrounding area. According to a RedHawk Alert posted to social media at 2:11 p.m., the school stated: "RedHawk Alert: EMERGENCY -Reports of gunfire was reported in the area of Mcguffey Hall. Officers have checked the building and all is clear. The surrounding area has been checked and no issue has been located. Officers will continue to check the area. Stay vigilant!!"

An official all-clear was issued by the university at 2:37 p.m. The alert stated: "RedHawk Alert: EMERGENCY - ALL CLEAR! No active threat on campus. Safe to resume your daily activities."

Cause of Incident

The Butler County Sheriff's Office confirmed to WLWT that the incident was not a shooting. "The Butler County Sheriff's Office confirmed to WLWT that fireworks were shot off inside of the building," the report stated. Hindustan Times also reported that the Butler County Sheriff's Office confirmed the reported incident involved fireworks.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the rapid response protocols in place at universities for potential active threat situations. While the event was ultimately caused by fireworks, the initial alerts triggered a significant emergency response, including searches of buildings and surrounding areas, and widespread notifications to the campus community. Parents and students shared screenshots of the emergency notifications on social media, and the alerts were reportedly displayed on televisions in classrooms.

---

Sources

• wlwt.com: All clear given after report of gunfire prompts 'active threat situation' at Miami University - WLWT
• hindustantimes.com: Miami University: What's happening near McGuffey Hall on Oxford, Ohio campus? RedHawk Alert sent | Hindustan Times

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.