Photo: Liam Norris / Cultura / Getty Images
On Wednesday morning (September 2), an emergency situation unfolded at Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro, Virginia, prompting the evacuation of students and staff. The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident, initially described as a shooting, is now "contained and secured." One person was injured during the incident.
Law enforcement, including the Waynesboro Police Department and Augusta County Sheriff's Office, responded swiftly, ensuring all students, teachers, and staff were safely evacuated. The children are being reunited with their families at Westminster Presbyterian Church, located at 1904 Mount Vernon Street in Waynesboro. The Waynesboro Public Schools (WPS) have asked families to avoid the school area to allow emergency vehicles and buses access.
In response to the situation, schools in Stuarts Draft and the Wilson Complex were placed under a precautionary lockdown. The Augusta County School Board confirmed that these schools returned to normal activities by 11:05 a.m. after the threat was assessed and deemed unrelated to their division.
Gov. Abigail Spanberger shared the following statement on Facebook as the situation develops.
“I am monitoring the emergency at Westwood Hills Elementary School this morning. My heart is with these young students, their parents and families, and the teachers and staff at the school. Thank you to the first responders who are assisting at the scene.
“Augusta County and Waynesboro law enforcement and schools are continuing to provide updated guidance to community members.”