University of South Carolina says 'no evidence of active shooter' on campus: 'Defend yourself as ...'

Students at the University of South Carolina received a warning on Sunday about a possible active shooter near a library on the main campus in Columbia, reports the Associated Press. However, school officials soon said there was no evidence of a shooter. They informed that a search was going on and also advised students to hide in place. There were no immediate reports about any shots fired. The school sent the original warning shortly after 6:45 pm to order students to evacuate the area near the Thomas Cooper Library, seek shelter and obstruct themselves, if necessary. The warning describes a white male suspect, about 1.8 meters long, with black pants. “Defend yourself if you encounter the suspect,” the warning states. “Assignments from public safety officials,” he added. The warning did not confirm that a shooting had occurred. This was followed by another warning and said that there was no evidence of an active shooter “at the moment. Police are looking for buildings affected. Keep hiding in place until everything is clear.” About 38,000 students live the school in the heart of the city at nearly 145,000 people. (With inputs of AP)