Crime
False shooting alert at UMass Boston near East Hall
Multiple Swatting Incidents Reported Across City, Including False Shooting Threat at UMass Boston
Boston Police confirmed Thursday that they are investigating a series of swatting calls across the city, including a reported active shooter situation at the University of Massachusetts Boston.
Authorities have since clarified that no shots were fired and no victims were located. Law enforcement remains on scene to ensure campus safety and confirm the false nature of the threats.
Police have reported the incident on campus all clear. There is no ongoing threat to the community.
The incident initially caused widespread alarm after several students and community members reported hearing what they believed to be gunfire.
Emergency responders, including Boston Police, campus police, and multiple ambulances, flooded the area as a precautionary measure.
Two female students living in campus housing stated they were able to contact friends inside the residence halls, who reported being instructed to shelter in place until the situation was resolved.
The University of Massachusetts Boston issued a first social media alert describing the matter as a “police incident.”
A short time later, the university elevated its advisory, calling it a “public safety threat.”
Initial posts indicated the incident originated at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, which is located adjacent to the UMass Boston campus.
Follow-up alerts redirected focus to a residence hall, where students were told to remain inside their rooms.
At this time, Boston Police and UMass Boston Police have confirmed that the reports of an active shooter were unfounded. No evidence of a shooting has been discovered, and no injuries have been reported.
Officials stated that the incident is part of a pattern of swatting calls made across Boston on Thursday. Swatting involves making false emergency reports to prompt a large law enforcement response.
The university has urged the public and students to remain cautious but reassured the community that there is no ongoing threat. Additional information will be provided as the investigation continues.
Crime
Woman Fatally Struck by Semi-Truck on Birmingham Interstate Exit Ramp Identified as Shontea Baker
Authorities have identified the woman who was killed earlier this week after being struck by a semi-truck on an interstate exit ramp in Birmingham.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed on Friday that the victim was Shontea Renee Baker, 40, a Birmingham resident.
The fatal incident occurred at approximately 10:26 a.m. Wednesday on the Arkadelphia Road exit ramp from Interstate 59/20.
Emergency responders pronounced Baker deceased at the scene at 10:42 a.m.
At this time, no further details regarding the circumstances of the crash have been released.
The Birmingham Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident.