A bomb threat reported near Ardrey Auditorium on Northern Arizona University's Flagstaff campus triggered a rapid evacuation on Thursday, according to university officials. Students, staff and visitors in the area were instructed to clear out and follow directions from law enforcement and campus safety personnel while investigators checked out what authorities stressed was an unconfirmed report.
What officials said
Northern Arizona University used its social channels and the NAU Safe alert system to announce that "A Bomb Threat has been reported in the area of Ardrey Auditorium" and urged people nearby to evacuate immediately. The alert noted that police were investigating and that the threat had not yet been confirmed, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. The message also told people to stay away from the area until officials give the all-clear and to follow instructions regarding road closures and officer directions.
Campus operations and events
ABC15 Arizona noted that Ardrey Auditorium is located near Knoles Drive and Riordan Road on campus and that two commencement events were on the books for 3 p.m. Organizers had not yet said whether those ceremonies would move forward, be delayed or be relocated. University channels said they would push out updates as soon as new information comes in.
On-the-ground response
Officers from NAU Police and the Flagstaff Police Department responded to the scene while investigators searched the surrounding area and spoke with potential witnesses, according to university messages and local reports. Details on timely warnings and related procedures are available on the NAU Police Department page.
Student reaction and campus impact
Regional coverage highlighted social media posts from students and community members describing how they were sheltering in nearby buildings and how streets around campus had been blocked off, according to Hindustan Times. If Ardrey Auditorium stays closed into the afternoon, performances, ceremonies and other events scheduled there will likely be disrupted.
Where to get official updates
The university urged students, staff and the public to monitor official NAU channels and the NAU Safe app for the latest word on the situation. Emergency alerts and campus safety resources are posted on the university's website, and local outlets report that authorities will issue an all-clear once the area has been fully checked and secured.
