Executive Summary
- The University of Tennessee is hosting a large-scale active shooter training exercise today.
- The drill involves UTPD, the Knoxville Police Department, and the Knoxville Fire Department.
- Rocky Top Dining will be closed until 1 p.m. to accommodate the simulation.
- Officials state the exercise is designed to test emergency preparedness and inter-agency cooperation.
The University of Tennessee is conducting a large-scale active shooter training exercise on campus today, January 13, in coordination with multiple local emergency response agencies. According to university officials, the operation is centered at the Rocky Top Dining facility on Andy Holt Avenue to test emergency protocols.
The training exercise is scheduled to take place during the late morning hours, necessitating the closure of the dining hall until 1 p.m. Participating agencies include the University of Tennessee Police Department (UTPD), the UT Office of Emergency Management, the Knoxville Police Department, and the Knoxville Fire Department. The collaboration aims to simulate a comprehensive response to a critical incident.
In a statement addressing the drill, UTPD described the event as a vital measure for campus security. “This exercise is part of our continued efforts to enhance campus safety and emergency preparedness. Regular drills like this ensure that our community remains ready to respond effectively to potential threats and emergencies,” the department stated.
Operational Readiness
Large-scale simulations are essential for validating the interoperability of campus and municipal law enforcement units during high-stress scenarios. By integrating fire and police assets in a controlled environment, authorities can evaluate communication channels, response times, and tactical coordination, ensuring that procedural gaps are identified and addressed prior to any real-world emergency.
