WILMINGTON, N.C. — Officials at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune have determined that social media claims alleging Marines were being attacked by university fraternity members are false.
The rumors, which circulated widely across Facebook and text chains in early November, claimed that a fraternity initiation at UNCW involved “jumping Marines” and stealing their military ID cards. Some versions of the message also alleged that women were being used to lure Marines into ambushes around Wilmington.
UNCW Police say they received several calls and emails expressing concern but found no evidence supporting any of the claims. After an investigation involving Marine Corps leadership, local police, and other agencies, officials concluded that the allegations were unfounded.
“These rumors are falsehoods generated on social media,” the university stated. “They disrespect the shared legacy of honor and service that UNCW and the Marine Corps uphold.”
@notliamrowaan Just for clarification #fyp #usmc #marines #uncw ♬ original sound – Liam Rowan
University police said a separate bomb threat submitted through the school’s website the same week was also determined to be false after a joint investigation with state and federal agencies. No explosives were found, and there was no danger to the campus.
UNCW was founded in 1947 to support World War II veterans returning to civilian life and currently serves about 2,400 military-affiliated students, roughly 12 percent of its student body. The campus hosts several military programs, including The Honor Foundation, a 12-week transition course for members of Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC).
The university recently held Veterans Week events, including a parachute demonstration by the All Veteran Group, a fitness expo, and a Veterans Day ceremony. Student organizations, including fraternities, participate in several veteran-focused initiatives throughout the year.
Authorities are urging caution as false claims continue to circulate online. UNCW Police advised the public to verify information before sharing or reposting it and to report any credible threats or suspicious activity directly to law enforcement.
Anyone with information or concerns can contact UNCW Police at (910) 962-2222 or police@uncw.edu.
Earlier this year, five college students in Massachusetts were charged after allegedly luring and attacking a U.S. soldier in an unrelated case at Assumption University. Investigators said that incident, reported by The Salty Soldier in January, was linked to a social media “sting” trend imitating the show To Catch a Predator.
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