Bowling Green, Kentucky – Lockdown at Henry F. Moss Middle School
This morning, law enforcement responded to a potential threat at Henry F. Moss Middle School in Bowling Green, leading to an active lockdown situation. The concern arose around 10:16 AM, prompting a heavy police presence at the scene. During this time, no one was allowed to enter or exit the building.
Parents gathered outside the school, anxious for news about their children. At approximately 10:45 AM, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) released a statement on social media, confirming that the campus had been made safe. They indicated that they were investigating the reported threat further.
Details of the Situation
The alert began when the WCSO received information about a possible weapon involved with a student at Moss Middle School. Immediately, the school was placed on lockdown, and other schools in the Warren Central feeder system also enacted temporary lockdowns as a precaution.
According to a message from Warren County Public Schools, the school district aims to maintain a safe environment for students and staff while ensuring open communication with families regarding safety issues that may arise.
The district’s message stated: “Due to a rumor of a student with a potential weapon at Moss Middle School this morning, several of our schools in the Warren Central feeder system went on temporary lockout or lockdown. Law enforcement was notified immediately, and the student under suspicion has been identified in a location that is off school campus; the student is currently being questioned by authorities.”
Response from Authorities
Warren County Sheriff Brett Hightower later arrived at the school and reassured the public that there was no imminent threat to students. He emphasized, “There was no threat to this campus today.” Hightower acknowledged that the sheriff’s office takes every threat seriously and urged the public to avoid spreading incorrect information that could complicate the situation.
Hightower also mentioned the presence of multiple school resource officers working in partnership with local law enforcement to maintain security. He stated that detectives were on-site conducting interviews to gather more information regarding the situation.
Rob Clayton, superintendent of Warren County Public Schools, was also present at the school and shared the district’s commitment to ensuring the safety of students and staff. Clayton acknowledged the rise of rumors spreading quickly and how that can affect the school’s ability to communicate effectively. “We want to be quick and timely and will work closely with local law enforcement,” he said.
Final Updates
As of around 11:30 AM, the lockdown had been lifted, and the campus was deemed safe. The authorities informed parents that they can reach out to school officials with any questions or concerns.
The district encourages anyone who sees or hears anything concerning to report it immediately by contacting a trusted adult or using the Kentucky Safe School Tipline at 866-393-6659.
As the situation developed, various updates were provided to keep the community informed. The WCSO and local police departments continued to work diligently to ensure the safety of all students and staff in Bowling Green’s schools.
Community members are urged to stay vigilant and calm as more information continues to emerge. The safety of students remains the top priority for both law enforcement and school officials.