Athens, Ohio: Law Enforcement Responds to Active Shooter Situation Near West Union and Depot Streets
ATHENS, OH — A heavy law enforcement presence has surrounded an area near West Union Street and Depot Street following reports of an active shooter situation in Athens. Ohio University Police, along with other local and regional agencies, are responding swiftly as the situation unfolds in the heart of the college town.
The first calls reporting gunfire came in just before noon, prompting an immediate lockdown of nearby areas. Police quickly moved to secure the perimeter and began evacuating buildings closest to the scene. Residents and university students were urged to shelter in place and avoid the area while officers assess the threat.
Ohio University officials have confirmed that emergency alerts were sent to all students, faculty, and staff, instructing them to remain indoors and stay away from windows. Classes and campus operations were suspended for the remainder of the day to ensure safety while the investigation continues.
Multiple agencies, including Athens Police Department, Ohio University Police, and the Athens County Sheriff’s Office, have established a command center near the intersection where the incident was first reported. Heavily armed tactical units were seen moving through nearby buildings as part of the search for the suspect.
At this time, authorities have not released information about the identity of the suspect or whether any individuals have been harmed. EMS crews remain on standby as officers continue to clear and secure buildings. A medical helicopter was reportedly deployed as a precautionary measure but has not yet been used.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as law enforcement vehicles flooded the streets. Some reported hearing multiple loud bangs, followed by police shouting commands to pedestrians in the area. Others quickly sought shelter inside stores, classrooms, or residential buildings nearby.
The motive behind the reported shooting remains unknown. Officials have emphasized that the investigation is still in the early stages and that all updates will be released once the immediate danger has been addressed. A press briefing is expected later in the day as more facts are confirmed.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen suspicious activity or has relevant video footage to come forward. Community members have been encouraged to avoid speculating on social media while the situation remains fluid and facts are still emerging.
As the city grapples with the shock of this incident, counseling services and university crisis response teams have been activated to support students and faculty. The Athens community, known for its close-knit environment, is uniting in concern and hoping for a peaceful and swift resolution.
Updates will be shared by law enforcement and university officials as more details become available. For now, the focus remains on ensuring public safety, identifying those involved, and restoring calm in the affected areas of Athens.
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