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Swatting Hoax at Francis Marion University Sparks Major Response

11/13/2025

48 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A swatting incident at Francis Marion University on November 10, 2025, followed a false active shooter report and prompted a major police response.
The university said it chose not to activate the Swamp Fox Alert System because the threat was quickly deemed a hoax.
Sheriff T. J. Joye (the sheriff) confirmed every available deputy responded.
Investigators, including the FBI, are seeking the caller who issued the hoax.

History

Historical Context

Swatting incidents began as prank calls to emergency services, escalating notably in 2008 with a false report in California. By 2015, the FBI documented over 400 swatting cases, reflecting a troubling trend. The recent swatting at Francis Marion University involved law enforcement mobilization in response to a false active shooter report, highlighting ongoing concerns about public safety and resource strain.

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Story summary

A swatting incident at Francis Marion University on November 10, 2025, followed a false active shooter report and prompted a major police response.
The university said it chose not to activate the Swamp Fox Alert System because the threat was quickly deemed a hoax.
Sheriff T. J. Joye (the sheriff) confirmed every available deputy responded.
Investigators, including the FBI, are seeking the caller who issued the hoax.

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