Hoax at TCAT update
The McMinnville Police Department is providing the following update regarding the false active-shooter report at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) on August 17, 2026.
At approximately 1:35 p.m. on August 17, the McMinnville Police Department, along with assisting agencies, responded to TCAT following a report of a possible active shooter.
Officers immediately responded and conducted a thorough check of the facility. The report was determined to be false, and no active threat was found. No one was injured or in danger.
Preliminary information developed during the investigation indicates the incident may be connected to an apparent swatting incident involving a residence in St. Joseph, Michigan, which was reportedly associated with a California telephone number. Investigators are examining the timing and circumstances of the Michigan incident and the report received in Tennessee to determine whether a connection exists.
Information received during the investigation indicates that an automated alert to a local individual led them to believe an active-shooter incident was occurring at TCAT. The information was then reported to School Resource Officers and Warren County 911 for verification, resulting in the emergency response.
Due to the potential interstate nature of the incident, the matter has been referred to federal authorities for further investigation. Homeland Security also responded and assisted with the investigation.
At this time, no connection between the incidents has been conclusively established, and the investigation remains ongoing.
False reports of active shooters and other acts of violence are taken extremely seriously. Law enforcement must respond to every report of an active shooter as though the threat is real until officers can determine otherwise. These false reports place significant demands on emergency resources and can cause unnecessary fear within the community.
The McMinnville Police Department would also like to commend the TCAT staff for their response during the incident and for their efforts in quickly accounting for all students. Their preparedness, cooperation, and attention to the safety of their students were greatly appreciated by responding law enforcement personnel.
The McMinnville Police Department would like to thank Homeland Security, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Motlow State Community College Police Department, and the Warren County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance and response.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available and appropriate.