Lockdown at California High School in San Ramon lifted after phoned-in threat, campus search

California High School in San Ramon was placed on lockdown for almost three hours Thursday following a threatening phone call to staff, according to police.

At about 10 a.m., San Ramon police announced that they were on site providing extra security at the school and that the campus was locked down after someone phoned in a threat of violence.

Police later confirmed that the incident began Thursday morning when front office staff at the school received a call from an unidentified male who claimed explosive devices had been placed throughout the school. The individual also stated "someone would be arriving shortly to shoot up the school." 

Shortly after 11 a.m., police said officers have started a search of the California High School campus with help from explosive-detection K9s. Additionally, uniformed police personnel were escorting any students or staff located outside of classrooms or offices back to the front office. 

About a half an hour later at 11:38 a.m., police said the campus search is continuing and would include the school parking lots and exterior sports fields. 

At 12:38 p.m., police announced that the lockdown was lifted after the entire campus was searched and cleared. The campus remained a "secure" mode, meaning students were allowed to move freely on the school grounds, but no outside individuals would be allowed on campus. San Ramon police officers will remain at the school for the rest of the day to ensure the safety of those on campus "out of an abundance of caution."

The incident remains under investigation and police will provide additional information as appropriate.

In:
• San Ramon