Kingston Elementary Lockdown – Security Threat Prompts Lockdown – Virginia Beach, VA
Kingston Elementary Lockdown: Security Threat Prompts Lockdown – Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, Virginia – Kingston Elementary School in Virginia Beach was placed on lockdown Tuesday morning following reports of a potential security threat, according to officials from Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) and the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD).
Authorities have since confirmed that no active threat was found and that all students and staff members are safe.
Lockdown Initiated After Reported Threat
The lockdown began around 10:15 a.m., when school administrators received information about a possible safety concern near the campus. In line with district safety procedures, Kingston Elementary immediately went into lockdown to ensure the protection of all students and staff.
Police and school resource officers arrived on scene within minutes to secure the building and investigate the situation.
“Out of an abundance of caution, Kingston Elementary was placed on lockdown while officers investigated a potential security threat,” the Virginia Beach Police Department said in a statement. “After a thorough check of the school and surrounding area, no threat was identified.”
Students and Staff Safe, Lockdown Lifted
During the lockdown, students remained in their classrooms under teacher supervision while law enforcement conducted a full safety sweep. Parents were promptly notified through the district’s emergency alert system and advised to stay clear of the school until the all-clear was given.
By early afternoon, VBPD confirmed the area was secure and lifted the lockdown. Normal school operations resumed shortly after.
A spokesperson for Virginia Beach City Public Schools added, “We are grateful for the swift response from law enforcement and the cooperation of our staff and students. Safety remains our top priority in all circumstances.”
Law Enforcement and School District Response
Following the incident, Virginia Beach Police increased patrols around the Kingston Elementary campus as a precautionary measure. School counselors and administrators have also made support services available to students who may have been frightened by the lockdown.
The district emphasized that these safety protocols are designed to keep students secure during any potential emergency and that staff regularly train for such scenarios.
Community Reaction
Parents and community members expressed both relief and gratitude that the situation was handled quickly and effectively. Many praised the VBCPS alert system for keeping families informed in real-time.
Local residents also took to social media to thank police officers, school staff, and first responders for their dedication to keeping children safe.
Ongoing Review
While officials confirmed there was no credible threat, the Virginia Beach Police Department continues to review the circumstances surrounding the initial report to determine its origin. Authorities urge the public to report any suspicious activity immediately and to avoid spreading unverified information online.