Social media erupted in fear and confusion on Sunday night after viral videos claimed an active shooter was targeting the Golden Nugget Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. However, local authorities have now confirmed that no such incident occurred, calling the online claims completely false.
The panic began when multiple clips circulated across Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok, showing chaos and heavy police presence near the casino. The footage quickly spread, causing alarm among both residents and tourists along the Gulf Coast.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
But according to the Biloxi Police Department, the viral video was not from this year — it actually dates back to a 2021 incident that took place at the same casino. Officials say the old video was misrepresented as current, leading to widespread misinformation and unnecessary fear.
“We are aware of a viral video circulating that claims to show an active shooter at the Golden Nugget tonight. This information is false,” police stated. “The footage is from 2021 and does not reflect any current situation. Please rely on verified sources for accurate updates.”
Police confirmed that officers did respond to multiple emergency calls from concerned citizens after the misleading posts went viral. However, when they arrived, they found no evidence of gunfire or any active threat, and the casino continued normal operations throughout the evening.
The #GoldenNugget hashtag trended for hours as users warned others to stay away from the area. Some nearby businesses even closed temporarily out of caution before authorities clarified the truth.
Experts say the false alarm highlights how quickly misinformation spreads online — especially during emergencies — and the real-world consequences it can have. False reports can cause panic, strain emergency resources, and create unnecessary public fear.
As of now, officials confirm that there is no active shooter or danger at the Golden Nugget Casino. Operations remain fully open, and police are urging the public to fact-check and verify before sharing alarming information on social media.