Cops swarmed an elementary school in Virginia after a shooting was reported on Wednesday morning.
Officers rushed to Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro, roughly 95 miles northwest of Richmond, after reports arose around 10 a.m.
One person was injured, but all students are safe, WJLA reported, citing sources.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives confirmed that its Washington division was “responding to a reported shooting incident” at the school.
The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office said the scene was “contained and secured” in an update.
“For the safety of students, families, school personnel, and first responders, the public is asked to continue avoiding the immediate area until further notice,” read the statement to WRIC.
Waynesboro Police Department said it was managing a “critical incident” at the school.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger took to social media following the shooting and confirmed she is “monitoring the emergency.”
“My heart is with these young students, their parents and families, and the teachers and staff at the school. Thank you to the first responders who are assisting at the scene. Augusta County and Waynesboro law enforcement and schools are continuing to provide updated guidance to community members,” she wrote in a statement on X.
The Waynesboro Police Department and Augusta County Sheriff’s Department were both approached for comment.
Parents were urged to stay away from the school to maintain access for school buses and emergency vehicles by local sheriff’s deputies.
A reunification was held for students and families at the nearby Westminster Presbyterian Church.
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Barber confirmed that “all Westwood students, teachers, and staff are accounted for and are safe,” adding that all other Waynesboro Public Schools have been placed on lockdown “as a precautionary measure.”
Augusta County Public Schools confirmed that at 11:05 a.m. it was determined that “all schools in the Wilson and Stuarts Draft areas could return to normal school activities.”
