FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. — Multiple schools and educational facilities in Franklin County were placed on lockdown or hold-in-place status Wednesday after authorities received a threat call directed at Franklin County High School, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.
The threat prompted a significant law enforcement response across the county as deputies began investigating the call and assessing the situation. Officers were dispatched to several campuses as part of precautionary measures intended to protect students, faculty and staff.
The affected facilities included Franklin County High School, the Franklin Center, Franklin County Middle School, the Gereau Center, Rocky Mount Elementary School, Lee Waid Elementary School and Christian Heritage Academy.
Law enforcement officers conducted building sweeps and worked to determine the source of the threat call. Authorities reported that students, faculty and staff at the affected locations were safe as the investigation continued.
The heightened police presence prompted concern among parents and other community members. However, officials said the precautionary measures were taken out of an abundance of caution while deputies assessed the threat and worked to ensure the safety of those inside the schools.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office urged parents and guardians not to travel to the affected campuses while the investigation was underway. Officials said keeping access roads clear was important so law enforcement and emergency personnel could move between locations and complete safety checks.
There were no reports of injuries or immediate danger to students or staff in the information released by authorities. School administrators and law enforcement remained in communication as they coordinated security procedures and updates for families.
The investigation into the threat call remains ongoing. Authorities said additional information about the incident and the status of the affected schools would be released as it becomes available, and community members were encouraged to rely on official communications for updates.
