EDMONTON, Alta. — Ross Sheppard High School in Edmonton was placed under lockdown Friday after a reported weapons complaint prompted a significant police response near the school.
Reports from people in the area described numerous police vehicles around Ross Sheppard High School as students and staff inside the building were instructed to remain in lockdown. A message reportedly sent to families said the school was under lockdown because of a weapons complaint and that students were safe, quiet and staying out of sight.
Despite some reports referring to a shooting, there was no verified information provided confirming that shots were fired at the school. The available information indicated that police were responding to a weapons-related complaint, while the specific nature of the alleged weapon or threat had not been publicly confirmed.
People inside the school reportedly received instructions to remain quiet and out of sight while police handled the situation. Parents and family members sought information as the police response continued around the school.
There was no confirmed information provided about injuries or fatalities connected to the lockdown. Authorities had also not publicly confirmed a suspect, arrest or the type of weapon allegedly involved.
The police response prompted concern among parents, students and staff. Families were advised to rely on direct communications from school officials and police rather than unverified reports circulating on social media.
The circumstances surrounding the weapons complaint remained under investigation. Authorities were expected to establish whether there was an actual threat to students or staff and provide additional information as the response continued.
The Ross Sheppard High School lockdown remained a developing situation, with the weapons complaint and police response reported but claims of a shooting not independently confirmed in the information available. Further updates from Edmonton police or school officials may provide additional details.
