Fireworks may have triggered an active threat alert at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, on Thursday after reports of gunfire near campus led police to respond to multiple locations, according to police officials.
Officers were dispatched around 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, to the area of Spring and Main streets after reports of gunshots. Officers spoke with multiple witnesses who said the sounds were more consistent with fireworks. Police found no evidence of gunfire or injured people, according to the City of Oxford Division of Police.
While officers were investigating that report, Miami University Police received a separate report of gunshots at McGuffey Hall, located at 210 E. Spring St. Oxford officers responded to assist university police, and investigators determined the sounds reported in both calls were likely the same.
Police also received a report of a motorcycle whose engine was backfiring in the area. Officers searched the area but found no threat.
Miami University issued a RedHawk Alert warning of an active threat on campus and urging people to “RUN/HIDE/FIGHT.” A later alert said officers had checked McGuffey Hall and the surrounding area without finding a threat.
The university subsequently issued an all-clear, saying there was no active threat and students and staff could resume their daily activities.
A photograph sent to WLWT shows a room with chairs, a whiteboard and furniture or equipment positioned near a door. It has not been confirmed whether the room is connected to the reported incident.