Lockdown Lifted at Embry-Riddle University After Shooting Threat

Campus operations have resumed after a five-hour security sweep found no credible threat.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Daytona Beach campus was placed on lockdown for five hours on Tuesday night after a caller threatened to start shooting on the property. Law enforcement conducted a thorough search of the campus and issued an 'all-clear' after finding no suspicious individuals or devices. The university confirmed that no shooting took place and that campus operations have resumed.

Why it matters

Threats of gun violence on college campuses are a serious concern, and universities must take such threats seriously to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. This incident highlights the importance of emergency response protocols and the need for continued vigilance to prevent potential acts of violence.

The details

The lockdown was initiated around 8:40 p.m. on Tuesday after a caller contacted the university's security, claiming to have a firearm and threatening to start shooting, specifically mentioning the student union building. Law enforcement officers blocked all entrances to the university and conducted building-by-building searches to ensure no suspicious persons or devices were present. After the five-hour security sweep, the university confirmed that no shooting took place and that no suspicious individuals or weapons were located.

  • The lockdown was initiated around 8:40 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The lockdown lasted for five hours, ending early Wednesday morning.

The players

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

A private university specializing in aviation and aerospace education, with a campus located in Daytona Beach, Florida.

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What’s next

The investigation into the threat is ongoing, and authorities are working to identify the caller and determine the source of the threat.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of campus safety and the need for universities to have robust emergency response protocols in place to address potential threats and ensure the well-being of the entire campus community.