Fredericton police say there was no threat to public safety after a report of a man carrying a gun case prompted lockdowns at six schools in the city Thursday.
Leo Hayes High School, Gibson-Neill Memorial Elementary School, Elementary, Ecole Les Eclaireurs, Devon Middle School, Devon Christian School, and Harold Sappier were placed on lockdown as a precaution.
Police say while a man was found to be carrying a gun case, there was never any threat to the public.
The report came in just before 10:30 A.M. on Thursday on the Northside of Fredericton.
Some students at Leo Hayes High School thought it was just a drill, but Principal Brad Sturgeon assured them it was a serious event, gathering everybody inside the school.
“We had a school that was actually visiting with parents nearby and they were using our track facilities,” says Sturgeon. “We went out and spoke to all of those folks and were able to get them into our building.”
Students say they stayed quiet, and kept the lights off, but were texting worried friends and family during the lockdown.
Outside the schools, police were scouring the streets and city trails. The all clear was given about three hours later.
Fredericton Police located the individual within an hour and released a photo of what the person of interest was carrying.
“All I can say about what was in the case is that there was no firearm,” says Staff Sergeant Matt Myers.
The individual was advised why these measures were taken, and then let go shortly after.
While there wasn’t a threat this time, police encourage people to call them with information if they are concerned in similar circumstances.
“If it turns out to be nothing, then that’s perfect,” says Sgt. Myers. “If it turns out to be something, then that member of the community could’ve possibly saved somebody’s life.”
All schools were dismissed at their normal times later on Thursday.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Nick Moore
