A text message circulating among Troy University students Tuesday night had many students concerned of a rumored serial killer and rapist wandering around campus.

But, Troy University officials and Troy City Police said those messages were just that — rumor.

“There is absolutely no truth to a serial rapist or murderer in Troy,” said Troy City Police Chief Anthony Everage.

“There is nothing to it.”

Herb Reeves, Troy’s dean of student services, said the text message began circulating Tuesday night, claiming Everage said this individual was on the loose.

“The message stems from a father’s conversation with his daughter to take precautions as she was out late at night, that you never know who is out there,” Reeves said. “This conversation was shared with others, and consequently, the text message was created and sent out.”

Reeves said should any type of situation like this ever arise on campus, university officials will send out an e-mail and text message to the students through the safety system e2campus.