Multiple Alabama colleges evacuated after receiving bomb threats

Authorities are investigating bomb threats that were received by several collegiate institutions throughout the state of Alabama on Wednesday.

Auburn University, Jefferson State Community College and Shelton State Community College each reported their respective threats around noon, which were cleared soon after, according to Birmingham’s WVTM 13.

Bomb threats were also reported and cleared by Wallace State Community College’s Dothan campus, Enterprise State Community College, and both the Opp and Andalusia campuses of Lurleen B. Wallace Community College.

The University of South Alabama, the University of Alabama in Huntsville, Northwest Shoals Community College and Trenholm State Community College also received and cleared threats.

While noting that none of the bomb threats were deemed to be credible, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) advised campus personnel to remain vigilant.

“Authorities at Alabama’s community colleges are working closely with law enforcement on a state level and within each community to ensure the safety of residents across our facilities after alleged bomb threats were made at multiple institutions,” said ACCS spokesperson Ebony Horton.

“While no threats have been deemed credible at this time, some buildings have – per protocol – been evacuated and access restricted to some campuses,” she added. “Residents, including students, faculty and staff, are encouraged to not visit any of the colleges’ facilities until further notice by the colleges. Please stay tuned to your local news sources, as well.”

UPDATE 4:28 p.m.:

In a statement, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) advised that all schools targeted in the threat have been cleared.

“The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is aware of the most recent bomb threats made against universities and colleges around the country, which includes schools located in Alabama,” the agency stated. “ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Alabama Fusion Center (AFC), in-conjunction with local and federal partners, are currently monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of all students, faculty and staff. All collegiate schools that received threats within Alabama on Wednesday, July 27, have been cleared and classes have been deemed safe to resume. No further details are available at this time.”

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL