Reported shooting at Virginia elementary school ‘contained,’ sheriff’s office says

A reported shooting at Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro, Virginia, has been “contained,” according to the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office.

“All Westwood students, teachers, and staff are accounted for and are safe,” Waynesboro Public Schools posted Wednesday morning on social media, adding that the school was reuniting students and families at a designated location during a temporary lockdown.

“The lockdown at all Waynesboro Schools has been lifted,” the school posted just after noon, roughly two hours after the incident. 

“We appreciate your cooperation, understanding and patience through this process,” they added. “All students from Westwood have been released to their parents and guardians at this time.”

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“Currently, law enforcement is at all locations out of an abundance of caution. Parents are encouraged to follow the directions of school staff and law enforcement. “Again, all students, staff, and teachers are safe.”

Authorities urged the public to avoid the immediate area while the investigation continued.

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No additional details about possible injuries or a suspect were immediately released, but local reports have indicated just one adult was injured.

“I am monitoring the emergency at Westwood Hills Elementary School this morning,” Democratic Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger wrote on X. “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.”

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Democratic Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones posted support services for students and staff will be available.

“My office is in contact with local authorities in Waynesboro and Augusta and stands ready to offer support and resources as needed,” he wrote on X just before noon. “The safety of our children, teachers, and staff is paramount in this moment. Thank you to the first responders and law enforcement on the scene.”