Moore County middle school on lockdown after reported shooter; no threat found, authorities say

ABERDEEN, N.C. (WTVD) -- A Moore County middle school was placed under a soft lockdown Thursday morning as law enforcement investigated reports of a possible shooter on campus.

Moore County Public Schools confirmed to ABC11 that Southern Middle School went into lockdown after the report. District officials said students and staff were secured in designated areas while authorities responded.

Aberdeen Police Chief Brian Chavis said officers forced entry by breaking a window to access the building but did not find a shooter inside. The Moore County Sheriff's Office and North Carolina State Highway Patrol searched the surrounding area, and authorities said they have not located a threat.

In a statement, the district urged parents and community members to stay away from campus while the situation was ongoing.

"To allow law enforcement to safely and effectively conduct their operations, we ask that parents and community members do not come to the campus at this time. While the school remains in lockdown, student checkouts will not be permitted," the district said. "We understand situations like this can be concerning, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation."

Authorities said no one was injured, though one student passed out during the incident.

Southern Middle School is located at 717 Johnson Street in Aberdeen.