Alabama State University
Screenshot from Google Maps showing the Alabama State University campus in Montgomery, Alabama. Courtesy Google Maps

September 11, 2025 — Multiple historically Black colleges and universities locked down Thursday amid emailed threats, including a "swatting" email targeting Alabama State University (ASU), prompting class cancellations and heightened security across several campuses.

The FBI said it is aware of a series of hoax threat calls and emails directed at HBCUs and is working with local and state law enforcement to investigate. Officials said no credible threats have been confirmed.

Alabama State reported a "terroristic threat" in the form of a swatting email that falsely claimed there was an active threat on campus. Students in residence halls were told to shelter in place while law enforcement conducted building sweeps.

"Together, we will continue to stand strong in our purpose as an institution of higher learning," ASU President Quinton Ross Jr. said in a statement. "If you see something, say something."

Other schools also responded with lockdowns or emergency protocols, including Virginia State University, Hampton University in Virginia, Southern University in Louisiana, and Clark Atlanta University in Georgia. Spelman College was also affected due to its proximity to Clark Atlanta.

The Congressional Black Caucus condemned the threats, calling them "a chilling reminder" of racism and extremism that continue to target Black communities.

Law enforcement agencies said no injuries were reported. Investigations are ongoing.