NAU Bomb Threat Evacuates Ardrey Auditorium in Flagstaff; No Hazardous Devices Found, NPA Graduation Delayed | Latest Updates | 17GEN4 News

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — (17GEN4 News) — May 15, 2026 — Northern Arizona University’s flagship performance venue was thrust into chaos Thursday afternoon when a bomb threat prompted a rapid evacuation of Ardrey Auditorium, disrupting campus activities and delaying a local high school graduation ceremony.

The incident began around 1:25 p.m. on May 14 when NAU officials received a report of a threat against the facility. The university immediately issued a campus alert via social media and emergency notification systems, directing all individuals in and around Ardrey Auditorium to evacuate the area immediately and stay away until further notice.

Ardrey Auditorium, located at 1115 S. Knoles Drive near the intersection of Knoles Drive and Riordan Road, is a prominent 1,000+ seat venue on the Flagstaff campus frequently used for performances, lectures, and graduation ceremonies.

Flagstaff Police Department and NAU Police responded swiftly. Officers conducted an extensive sweep of the building and surrounding area. By approximately 4 p.m., authorities declared the auditorium safe after finding no hazardous devices or suspicious items. NAU officials gave the all-clear, and normal operations resumed shortly thereafter.

Northland Preparatory Academy (NPA) graduation impact

The threat directly affected Northland Preparatory Academy’s scheduled graduation ceremony, which was set to begin at 2 p.m. Thursday in the auditorium. The event was postponed or delayed as a result. It remains unclear whether the ceremony was rescheduled for a later time the same day, moved to another venue, or pushed to a new date. NAU’s own spring commencement ceremonies had already concluded the previous weekend (May 8–9) at the Walkup Skydome.

No injuries were reported, and there have been no immediate arrests or public identification of a suspect. Further details about the origin of the threat (e.g., whether it was a phone call, email, or other method) have not been released by authorities as the investigation continues. University spokespeople described the threat as “unconfirmed” throughout the response.

Campus and community response

NAU emphasized in its alerts that individuals should monitor official university channels for updates. Kimberly Ott, NAU’s associate vice president for Communications, confirmed the all-clear timeline. Campus security worked in coordination with local law enforcement to ensure a thorough and safe resolution.

This incident marks one of several campus safety events in recent years at NAU, though officials have not linked it to any broader pattern. Summer classes at the university began on May 12, meaning the campus was active with students and staff at the time of the threat.

As of Friday morning, May 15, no new threats have been reported, and Ardrey Auditorium has returned to normal operations. 17GEN4 News will provide further updates if authorities release additional information about the investigation or charges.

17GEN4.com