Police: Toy Gun Found At Philadelphia Middle School, Lockdown Lifted
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Authorities say a toy gun prompted a Philadelphia middle school to go into lockdown Friday morning.
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Wagner Middle School at Chelten Avenue and 18th Street was placed on lockdown, just before 9 a.m.
Philadelphia police say a student reported to the principal that she saw someone in possession of a gun.
"I'm just nervous right now. My daughter is upset. I can't get to her. They won't let us in or out," parent Cheri Reeder told Eyewitness News.
Officers searched the school class by class after eventually finding a toy gun.
"See something, say something, and that's what happened here today. A student saw something they believed to be a weapon and immediately notified a school administrator about this," Philadelphia Police Sgt. Eric Gripp said.
Lee Whack, the Philadelphia School District's spokesman released the following statement on the incident:
"Safety is always our top priority in the School District of Philadelphia. Especially given the recent tragedy in Florida, it is important for adults and children to say something if they see something. We encourage families to speak with their children about the serious consequences of bringing any type of weapon to school. It is important that children know if they need help or have concern regarding safety that they should reach out to school staff or school police immediately. We thank each and every student and staff member at Wagner Elementary who followed our procedures throughout the lockdown and during dismissal. We also greatly appreciate the Philadelphia Police Department for their fast response and thorough investigation of the matter. Two robocalls and a letter were sent to families, and additional counseling services will be at the school when students return on Tuesday."
No one was injured.
Students had an early dismissal scheduled Friday.
