Elkin schools placed on lockdown after report of 'suspicious' person (copy)

Elkin High School, Middle and Elementary schools were placed on lockdown Tuesday afternoon just after 2 p.m. A post noting the lockdowns was on both the High School and Elementary School Facebook pages and parents also received a message from teachers via a class messaging app.

School dismissal resumed around 3 p.m. for the elementary students. Just after 3 p.m., a voice message was sent out to families from Superintendent Dr. Steve Hall stating that the lockdown was a precaution instituted by local law enforcement following a citizen reporting a “suspicious individual walking along the street near Elkin High School.”

According to Hall’s message, law enforcement responded immediately and determined there was no threat to the schools or community.

“At no time were students in harm or danger and no threats were found,” the message concluded.

Elkin Police Captain Josh Tulbert gave further details of the events that prompted the lockdown. Tulbert said a witness claimed they saw “someone near the school dressed in black with what appeared to be a firearm.” Tulbert said they were not able to substantiate the claim, and believe it was a mistake.

“We’ll have additional officers in the area during school hours, just in case,” he added.