(KTTS News) — Springfield Police have been clearing classrooms after someone called 911 this morning claiming that six people had been shot at Hillcrest High School.
No one was hurt.
Police say there was no active shooter and the threat is not credible.
The school district evacuated students.
One man was arrested at the scene for causing a disturbance, but police don’t believe he was involved with the anonymous threat.
The district sent out a letter to parents saying that everyone is safe.
Police are investigating.
The district issued this update to families at 1:45 p.m. Thursday:
Dear Hillcrest families:
This update is to reiterate that all Hillcrest students and staff are safe and to provide next steps. There is no evidence of a credible threat and the building has been cleared room by room.
Out of an abundance of caution students have been escorted for reunification to the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. Reunification through parent pick up is optional. Parents who wish to pick up their child early should enter the Fairgrounds through Gate 10 and exit through Gate 2 after reunification occurs. Students who drive will be dismissed following reunification of other students. Bus service for those who ride the bus will be provided at the regular time. Any students who are not participating in reunification with parents at the Fairgrounds will be dismissed at the regular time.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we followed our emergency procedures to ensure that all students and staff are safe.
We greatly appreciate the prompt, professional response of local law enforcement and our school police officers.
Original Letter from Springfield Schools
Dear Hillcrest families:
We want to let you know that there is currently a police presence at Hillcrest but everyone is safe. Springfield police and school police are responding to a 911 call that shots had been fired on campus. However, at this time, there is no indication that that has happened. Again, everyone at Hillcrest is safe at this time.
The building is currently locked down as law enforcement conduct a classroom by classroom search of the building. We are encouraging students and families to remain calm as we investigate this report. When we have more facts to share we will update you immediately. In the meantime, we ask that you do not come to the school.
Thank you for your understanding as we respond.
