Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School Placed on Brief Lockdown After Report of Armed Individual Near Campus

Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School in Hawaii was temporarily placed on lockdown on Wednesday following reports of an armed person seen in close proximity to the school premises. The lockdown was initiated as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff.

Lockdown Implemented in Response to Reported Gun Presence

The lockdown was prompted by a sighting of an individual believed to be carrying a firearm near the school. The exact details regarding the nature of the sighting and the identity of the person involved remain unclear at this time. However, local authorities were immediately informed, and the necessary protocols were swiftly put into action.

Safety Measures Ensured During Lockdown

During the lockdown, students and staff members were instructed to remain inside classrooms and secure all entrances. School officials, in coordination with law enforcement, conducted a thorough search of the premises to ensure that the individual in question did not enter the school grounds. Additionally, all scheduled activities and classes were suspended until the situation was resolved.

Parents and guardians were promptly notified about the lockdown via the school’s communication system, urging them to avoid coming to the school and to await further instructions. The school administration and local authorities worked together to maintain open lines of communication and provide updates to concerned parents throughout the duration of the lockdown.

Swift Response by Law Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies, including local police and the school’s resource officer, responded swiftly to the situation. They immediately secured the area surrounding the school and initiated a search for the individual reported to be armed. The school’s security protocols and the coordinated efforts of law enforcement helped ensure the safety of everyone on the campus.

Lockdown Lifted, Investigation Ongoing

After a thorough search of the area and the school premises, law enforcement declared the school safe and lifted the lockdown. Students were gradually released to their parents or authorized guardians after proper identification and verification procedures were completed.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather information about the individual seen near the school and the circumstances surrounding the incident. It is still unclear whether the individual posed a direct threat to the school or its occupants.

Support and Counseling Available for Students

Recognizing the potential impact that such incidents can have on students, Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School has made counseling services available to students who may need support in processing the events of the day. The school is committed to ensuring the emotional well-being of its students and will continue to provide assistance as needed.

As this incident remains under investigation, the school administration and local authorities are working together to ensure the safety and security of the entire school community. They are also reviewing and evaluating their security protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School will resume normal operations as soon as possible, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its students and staff. Updates will be provided to the school community as more information becomes available.

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Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School was placed on lockdown briefly on Wednesday after a person reportedly armed with a gun was spotted near the school. https://t.co/fUJ8tEeRZP

— Island News (@KITV4) January 11, 2024

Source

@KITV4 said Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School was placed on lockdown briefly on Wednesday after a person reportedly armed with a gun was spotted near the school. kitv.com/news/crime/wai…