Lockdown lifted at East Garner schools after report of possible armed person, officials say

GARNER, N.C. (WTVD) -- The code red lockdown at East Garner Middle School and East Garner Elementary School was lifted Friday morning.

School officials said the lockdown began around 7:15 a.m. after a report of a possible armed person near the middle school campus. As a precaution, both schools immediately went into a Code Red lockdown.

"In a Code Red lockdown, the entire building is secured, and no one is allowed to enter or exit until police provide an all-clear," school officials said.

Authorities responded and later confirmed the situation was resolved by approximately 7:30 a.m. No injuries were reported, and normal school operations have since resumed.

Chopper 11 flew over the scene as students were seen being dropped off and entering the middle school campus. East Garner Middle School and East Garner Elementary School are located about a mile apart along Jones Sausage Road in Garner.

"We are grateful to first responders and our security team for their swift response," school officials said in a statement to ABC11. "We understand that lockdowns are stressful for students, staff and families, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation. Support is available for any student or staff member who needs additional assistance following this event."