Police Secure Westwood Hills Elementary After Evacuation
Law enforcement contained an incident at Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro, evacuated students and staff to a nearby church, and began reunification with families.
A major police response was reported at Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro on Wednesday morning. Initial reports indicated an active shooter, but officials later confirmed the situation was contained. More than 20 officers, including SWAT personnel from the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office, arrived on scene, and the school was placed on lockdown.
Students were evacuated to Westminster Presbyterian Church, where families gathered in the lower fellowship hall. Waynesboro Public Schools issued statements confirming the emergency and outlining the reunification process, which began once the school was cleared and secured.
By mid-morning, all students, teachers and staff had been safely moved to the staging area, and law enforcement continued a thorough clearance of the building. The district lifted lockdowns at all six city schools later in the day, allowing parents to pick up their children.
Authorities advised the public to avoid the immediate area and warned against unverified information circulating on social media. Ridgeview Park, located behind the school, remained closed pending further notice.