NORTH CAROLINA — A reported shooter at a Moore County middle school prompted a lockdown Thursday morning, but authorities later determined there was no threat on campus.
According to officials, Southern Middle School in Aberdeen was placed on a soft lockdown after reports of a possible shooter inside the school. Moore County Public Schools said students and staff were secured in designated areas while law enforcement investigated.
Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Aberdeen Police Department and Moore County Schools Police Department.
Officers forced entry into the building by breaking a window, but no shooter was found. Authorities also searched the surrounding area and reported no active threat.
Officials later cleared the campus and said it was safe for students and staff to resume normal activities. Additional law enforcement officers remained on campus for the rest of the school day as a precaution.
School officials asked parents and community members to stay away from the campus while the investigation was underway. Counseling services were also being made available for students and staff.
Authorities said no injuries were reported, although one student passed out during the lockdown.
Southern Middle School is located on Johnson Street in Aberdeen.
