MARION., N.C. (828newsNOW) –– UPDATE: 10:55 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 21
Following a 911 call reporting an active shooter at McDowell High School this morning, students were released from McDowell High School and West McDowell Middle School at 10 a.m.
A press release from McDowell County Schools Superintendent Tracy Grit confirmed that a search of McDowell High School has been completed by local, state and federal law enforcement.
“Reports indicate there were no victims,” Grit wrote. “Fortunately, no shots were heard, and there is currently no confirmed threat to students or staff.”
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McDowell County authorities are investigating a reported active shooter at McDowell High School this morning. A spokesperson at McDowell County Emergency Services could not confirm what had transpired, but did confirm authorities are on the scene.
The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office said emergency personnel are on scene and have completed a primary search of the building.
“No victims have been located, no shots have been heard and there is no confirmed threat at this time,” a news release from the sheriff’s office said. A follow-up release called the “situation stable” and requested “All parents and guardians are advised to stand by for further updates regarding student dismissal procedures.”
The news release said Sheriff Ricky Buchannan and Superintendent Tracy Grit, as well as emergency chiefs from multiple agencies are on the scene.
Efforts to reach the McDowell County school district have been unsuccessful thus far.
The Marion Police Department said information should be released later today.
What’s Happening in Burke County stated “All clear from a reported active shooter. Calling it a prank.”
An audio recording in the post’s comment appears to capture an unknown police officer stating, “They’re gonna slowly release the students. They believe it was a bogus call.”
Concerned residents in the area have been reporting numerous police vehicles outside of the school on Facebook.
“Prayers for McDowell High School,” wrote Aaron Dula on Facebook. “Every cop in the county just went flying up there lights and sirens.”
“McDowell High School is on lockdown,” wrote Hannah Collins on Facebook. “Just dropped my kiddo off at school and passed 10 cop cars with lights and sirens and emergency vehicles! PLEASE PRAY right now!”
“Hearing some very disturbing news coming from McDowell High School at the moment,” wrote Christopher Rumfelt on Facebook. “I pray it isn’t what has been first reported, but if it is, I pray all the students and staff are safe.”