Police Investigate False Alarm That Drew SWAT To UPMC Venues

James

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Post on Jul 02, 2025

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Police Investigate False Alarm that Drew SWAT to UPMC Venues

Pittsburgh, PA – October 26, 2023 – A massive police response, including a SWAT team, descended upon multiple UPMC facilities in Pittsburgh yesterday afternoon following a reported active shooter situation that later proved to be a false alarm. The incident, which caused widespread panic and disruption, is now under intense investigation by city police.

The initial call, received around 2:30 PM, reported multiple casualties and an active shooter at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside. This triggered an immediate and significant response, with police cars, ambulances, and a SWAT team rapidly converging on the hospital. Similar reports, though less detailed, soon followed regarding other UPMC locations in the city, leading to a city-wide alert and widespread fear amongst patients, staff, and the general public.

<h3>A City on Edge: The Response and its Aftermath</h3>

The swift and substantial police presence understandably caused significant disruption. Roads surrounding UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside were closed, causing traffic gridlock and delaying emergency services unrelated to the initial incident. Patients and visitors were confined to their areas, while staff worked tirelessly to maintain order and assure the safety of everyone within the facilities. The situation remained tense for several hours as police conducted a thorough sweep of the buildings.

<h3>The False Alarm and the Investigation</h3>

After a comprehensive search of all reported locations, police confirmed there was no active shooter and no evidence of any violence or casualties. The incident was declared a false alarm around 5:00 PM, prompting a collective sigh of relief but also raising serious questions about the source of the initial call.

"We are treating this with the utmost seriousness," stated Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert in a press conference last night. "The disruption this caused was significant, and the potential consequences of a false alarm of this nature are extremely grave. Our investigation is focused on identifying the person responsible and holding them accountable." The police are currently analyzing phone records, security footage, and interviewing potential witnesses to determine the origin and intent behind the false report. They are also exploring all possible avenues, including whether this was a prank, a deliberate act of malice, or something else entirely.

<h3>The Impact and Lessons Learned</h3>

The incident underscores the critical importance of accurate reporting in emergency situations. False alarms, particularly those involving active shooters, can have devastating consequences, diverting critical resources and causing widespread fear and anxiety. This event highlights the need for robust verification procedures before disseminating potentially harmful information. UPMC released a statement thanking first responders and praising the calm and professionalism of their staff during the crisis. They also emphasized their commitment to reviewing their internal security protocols in light of this incident.

<h3>Looking Ahead: Increased Security Measures?</h3>

While details of the investigation remain confidential, the city is likely to review its emergency response protocols following this incident. Expect increased collaboration between local hospitals and law enforcement to enhance communication and streamline emergency response procedures. The possibility of improved security measures and enhanced training for staff in handling such situations is also being explored. The investigation into the false alarm is ongoing, and we will provide updates as they become available. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of the city's residents and healthcare facilities.

Keywords: UPMC, Pittsburgh, false alarm, active shooter, SWAT, police investigation, emergency response, hospital security, false report, Pittsburgh Police, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside