False Reports of a Shooter Trigger Alarm at Biloxi's Golden Nugget Casino — Authorities Verify It Was a Fabrication

Social media was filled with fear and uncertainty on Sunday evening following the dissemination of videos alleging that an active shooter was targeting the Golden Nugget Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. Nevertheless, local officials have now stated that such an event did not take place, dismissing the online allegations as entirely unfounded.

The wave of panic commenced when several videos made their way across platforms like Facebook, X (previously known as Twitter), and TikTok, depicting turmoil and significant police activity in the vicinity of the casino. The rapid spread of this footage sparked distress among locals and visitors along the Gulf Coast.

However, the Biloxi Police Department clarified that the viral clip was not recent — it originated from an incident in 2021 that occurred at the same casino. Authorities indicated that the outdated recording was mischaracterized as being current, leading to extensive misinformation and unwarranted anxiety.

“We acknowledge the existence of a viral video that purportedly shows an active shooter at the Golden Nugget tonight. This report is false,” the police announced. “The video is from 2021 and does not accurately represent any present situation. Please depend on verified sources for reliable updates.”

Law enforcement confirmed that officers responded to several emergency calls from worried citizens after the misleading posts gained traction. However, upon their arrival, they discovered no signs of gunfire or any ongoing threat, and the casino remained open and operational throughout the night.

The hashtag #GoldenNugget trended for several hours as users advised others to steer clear of the location. Some nearby establishments even temporarily shut down as a precaution until officials provided clarification on the situation.

Experts indicate that this false alarm illustrates how rapidly misinformation can propagate on the internet, especially during crises, and the tangible effects it can have. Erroneous reports can incite panic, put a strain on emergency services, and generate unnecessary fear in the public.

Currently, officials affirm that there is no active shooter or threat at the Golden Nugget Casino. The establishment is functioning normally, and law enforcement is encouraging the community to verify facts and authenticate information before disseminating alarming news on social media.