Statement from TCS Superintendent regarding the October 21 lockdown
CONTACT: Jennifer Buck, PIO
(336) 474-4183
(336) 870-4892
buckj@tcs.k12.nc.us
From Superintendent Cate Gentry:
This morning, Thomasville High School staff responded to a disturbance between two students when they were made aware that a student under suspension was trespassing and trying to gain access to campus. In addition, a teacher reported to the SRO that they heard a shot fired. THS was immediately placed on lockdown as was TMS due to the close proximity
Police arrived on the scene immediately. The trespassing student and their adult family member were immediately detained in the parking lot, searched and taken into custody. After a thorough police investigation, no weapons or evidence of shots being fired were found. School grounds and those involved were thoroughly searched and no evidence of weapons, or gunfire was obtained. Students and staff followed protocol and remained in lockdown until approximately 12:30pm.
There were no injuries and no one was hurt. Several posts on social media provided incorrect and reckless information about injuries to staff and specific individuals which were untrue. I will emphasize again that no injuries occurred with any staff or student and there were no weapons or evidence of gunfire on the grounds of THS
Messages from Thomasville Police Department and Thomasville City Schools were sent via those official sources and their official Facebook and twitter accounts as well as the school district phone calling system. These should serve as your verified sources of information.
Students and staff were safe throughout the lockdown and through dismissal. Additional support from the county and state highway patrol was provided and we want to thank all law enforcement for their immediate assistance. I also want to thank staff and students for their focus and following of practiced protocols that helped make sure everyone’s safety was maintained throughout the day. We also thank our parents and families for your patience and understanding during difficult circumstances.
