Authorities in Virginia responded Wednesday morning to reports of a shooting at an elementary school, prompting a major emergency response.
Law enforcement officers were called to Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro shortly after 10 a.m. following reports of an active shooter at the campus.
Officials said all students were safe and were being evacuated from the school. A reunification site for students and their families was set up nearby at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
ATF Washington said it was “responding to a reported shooting incident” at Westwood Hills Elementary as local and federal authorities converged on the scene.
In an update issued around 10:30 a.m., the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office said the area had been “contained and secured.”
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Sheriff’s deputies urged parents and community members not to go to the school, saying roads needed to remain clear for buses, police, and other emergency vehicles.
“For the safety of students, families, school personnel, and first responders, the public is asked to continue avoiding the immediate area until further notice,” the statement to WRIC said.
The Waynesboro Police Department and the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office were both contacted for additional comment.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
