Local authorities continue to investigate a shooting incident and social media threat at Southern Wayne High School. (Contributed photo)
DUDLEY — Authorities continue to investigate a gunshot incident and social media threat that caused two separate lockdowns at Southern Wayne High School Tuesday evening and Wednesday.
On Tuesday, at approximately 6:45 p.m., the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office received information about a weapon being discharged in the parking lot of Southern Wayne during a basketball game.
Deputies working the game immediately began lockdown procedures to ensure the fans’ safety. Other responding deputies canvassed the area for signs of injured people or property damage, but none were found.
According to the Wayne sheriff’s report, deputies located spent shell casings lying in the parking lot. Authorities reviewed surveillance video, spoke with eye witnesses and determined it was an isolated incident.
The school was not the target.
Extra deputies were assigned to Southern Wayne on Wednesday.
During the day, an anonymous social media threat began circulating and authorities placed the school in a soft lockdown. Instruction and movement inside the building continued without disruption. Exterior doors remained locked and any movement outside the building was closely monitored.
“In all of the incidents, law enforcement was immediately notified,” said Ken Derksen, public information officer for Wayne County Public Schools. “The school also worked to keep parents informed. We appreciate the partnership of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and their quick response to these situations.”
WCSO has asked that anyone with information regarding the incidents to call Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255.
Game postponed
The incident forced the suspension of Southern Wayne’s varsity girls tilt with Quad County 3A rival East Wake on Tuesday.
David Lee, athletics director at Southern Wayne, made the announcement at halftime that all activities had been postponed. He said a makeup date has not been determined since WCPS students are taking semester exams through early next week.
When play resumes, the Saints lead 23-7.
The varsity boys’ game will be played immediately upon the conclusion of the girls’ contest.
Southern Wayne travels to West Johnston on Friday.
