Moore County Public Schools confirmed to ABC11 that Southern Middle School went into lockdown as a precaution while law enforcement responded. Students and staff were secured in designated areas during the investigation.
Multiple agencies responded to the campus, including the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Moore County Sheriff's Office, Aberdeen Police Department and Moore County Schools Police Department.
Aberdeen Police Chief Brian Chavis said officers forced entry into the building by breaking a window, but no shooter was found inside. Deputies and troopers 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 return to a normal schedule.
Out of an abundance of caution, additional law enforcement remained on campus for the rest of the school day.
In a message to families, the district asked parents and community members to stay away from campus while the situation was unfolding. Counseling services are also being made available for students and staff.
School officials said student checkout for the remainder of the day will take place in the bus parking lot. Families should expect delays and plan extra time for pickups.
Authorities said no one was hurt, though one student passed out during the lockdown.
Southern Middle School is located at 717 Johnson Street in Aberdeen.