By Sachin Shankar Yadav 
On August 25, 2025, a reported active shooter incident happened on the University of Arkansas Fayetteville campus close to Mullins Library. To protect public safety, there was an immediate emergency response and campus-wide alerts.
Timing and Location
Around 12:30 p.m. local time, the emergency alerts were sent out, specifically alerting staff, faculty, and students to stay away from the area near Mullins Library, which is conveniently located on campus near the Student Union. “Avoid. Deny. Defend” was the message that was broadcast on the public address system and the RazALERT emergency notification system.
Response to Emergencies
A perimeter was quickly set up around Mullins Library by law enforcement, including state troopers, the Fayetteville Police Department, and campus police. According to eyewitness accounts, all of the library’s rooms were evacuated, and officers were seen with their weapons drawn. According to the most recent information, there had been no reports of injuries, but the situation was described as continuing, with a significant police presence present to conduct an investigation and maintain order in the area.
Alerts and Safety Information
As events unfolded, authorities sent out several alerts. A follow-up message said that police were responding to several reports around campus and that everyone should continue to “Avoid. Deny. Defend.” The initial alert told people to avoid the library area.
Official and Community Response
On social media, U.S. Representative Steve Womack said he was keeping a close eye on the situation and asked everyone in the area to heed any safety instructions from the university and law enforcement. Official statements stressed how crucial it is to stay updated through university communication channels and to precisely follow instructions in such situations.