Police respond to report of hostage situation near Riverton school

RIVERTON, Ill. (WCIA) — Police responded to a report of a hostage situation across from Riverton Middle School Wednesday morning.

According to Riverton Police Chief Bob Crouch, at 6:47 a.m., officers were dispatched to an apartment complex at 1005 E. Lincoln St. after a caller claimed a female was being held hostage in her apartment by her ex-boyfriend who was armed.

State Police, the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office and Sherman Police Department assisted Riverton Police in responding to the scene. The Sangamon County Hostage Negotiation Team contacted the female victim by phone and determined there was no threat. After she was able to exit the apartment, officers secured the residence.

While the apartment complex is close to Riverton Middle School, Crouch said at no time was there a threat to the school or any students. He added that precautions were taken in case the situation was to escalate.

Superintendent for Riverton schools Brad Polanin shared with WCIA the statement that was sent out to the middle school’s families Wednesday morning.

At approximately 7:15 am this morning, the Riverton Police Department reported to us a hostage situation across the street from Riverton Middle School.  According to the Police Department, the situation was under control at the time with a strong police presence.  As students were beginning to arrive for the morning, we chose to open our doors early to get the kids inside the building as quickly as possible to ensure their safety.  At approximately 7:35 am, we were informed by the Riverton Police Department that the situation had been handled, and the individual was in police custody.  We very-much appreciate the communication and commitment from our police department in keeping our schools safe.  And, thank you to our dedicated staff at Riverton Middle School for acting quickly to ensure the safety of our kids.

Please contact me if you have any questions.

HAWK UP!!

Brad Polanin, Superintendent of Riverton CUSD 14

There is no further information available at this time.

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