Jefferson City, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A suspect is in custody after an alleged threat of violence prompted a temporary lockdown and evacuation at Carson-Newman University on Tuesday afternoon.
According to the Jefferson City Police Department, officers responded shortly before 2 p.m. to the area near the university’s Maddox Student Activities Center after receiving a report of an individual making threats of violence.
As a precaution, law enforcement and campus security officials evacuated and searched the facility while they investigated the report.
Student Activities Center Evacuated
Police said the Maddox Student Activities Center was placed under lockdown as officers worked to assess the situation and ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff.
Authorities conducted a search of the building and surrounding area.
Investigators later determined there were no threats specifically directed toward Carson-Newman students or university employees.
Suspect Located Off Campus
Jefferson City police said deputies with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office located the individual near the intersection of Walnut Avenue and Old Andrew Johnson Highway.
The suspect was taken into custody without incident.
Officials have not yet released the suspect’s identity or announced any charges.
University Returns to Normal Operations
Following the investigation, Carson-Newman University announced the lockdown had been lifted and the campus had returned to normal operations.
In a statement, university officials said:
“Local law enforcement and campus security responded to a report received earlier today. Out of an abundance of caution, the Maddox Student Activities Center was placed under lockdown while officials assessed the situation.”
The university added that the individual was located off campus and taken into custody.
“The MSAC has been cleared by law enforcement. The building is open, and campus is operating normally.”
Investigation Continues
The Jefferson City Police Department said the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Authorities have not released additional details about the nature of the threats or whether more charges could be forthcoming.
Officials said updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
