Dover AFB Schools Placed On Lockdown Thursday, Police Search Buildings

Just after 3:00 Thursday afternoon several police agencies responded to assist Dover AFB Security Forces at George Welch Elementary School/Dover AFB Middle School.

The schools were placed on lockdown after Delaware State Police alerted the Security Forces that a suspicious individual on the housing side of Dover AFB was observed.

Once law enforcement arrived on scene they found the security forces in the schools and assisted them in clearing the schools. At around 5:10 DAFB posted that the lockdowns were over and gave the all-clear.

Authorities did remain at the school during dismissal.

Sources tell FSU that police have received a string of hoax calls to 911.

Dover AFB’s Statements

“The Dover AFB Elementary, Middle Schools and Youth Center have been placed on lockdown. Delaware State Police was alerted of a suspicious individual on the housing side of Dover AFB, however, a credible threat has not been found at this time. In an abundance of caution, the 436th Security Forces Squadron is investigating the situation to the fullest extent.

The students remain in lockdown, and will be methodically released. More information on the release will follow as it becomes available.

“UPDATE: The lockdown has been terminated. All students and staff have been accounted for. Parents may now pick up their children from the schools and the Youth Center. Students are being released by grade level. If the parent is unable to pick their child up, they must call the school to coordinate their child’s release.”

Developing

About Staff Writer

First State Update's Delaware editorial team covers New Castle County, Kent County and Sussex County breaking news, political news, and general news stories. We bring the reader the latest news from the Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Rehoboth Beach and all point in between. If you have news to share, email us at [email protected].

View all posts by Staff Writer →