No Gun Found After Lockdown at Salina South High School

SALINA, Kan. — A report of a possible firearm at Salina South High School Monday morning prompted a full lockdown, a heavy police presence, and swift action from staff, law enforcement, and students. Thankfully, after a thorough investigation, authorities determined there was no active threat or weapon on campus.

The incident began shortly after 9 a.m., when school staff contacted 911 to report a potential armed individual on campus. The school was immediately placed under lockdown, and the on-site school resource officer coordinated a response while officers from the Salina Police Department, Saline County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol, and other agencies converged on the scene.

As officers searched the building, they discovered that concerns were tied to a social media post made by a student earlier in the month, on April 3. The post showed the student with a firearm, but no threats were attached to the image. Importantly, investigators confirmed the photo was not taken at school — a fact that had been misreported and fueled panic on social media.

Compounding concerns, a student using a restroom Monday morning heard what they believed was the sound of a gun being "racked" and reported it to staff, suspecting the student from the earlier post. However, after reviewing surveillance footage, police determined that the student who made the social media post was not in the restroom at the time. The student who was present explained that the noise was the sound of a crushed water bottle.

Police finished clearing the building by about 10:12 a.m., and the lockdown was lifted. The school day then resumed as normal, with the administration evaluating any needed schedule adjustments.

Throughout the incident, parents gathered outside the school but remained calm and supportive. Authorities praised the students and staff for following lockdown procedures, which allowed law enforcement to swiftly and safely clear the building.

While the firearm post is still under investigation, officials emphasized that no gun was ever present, no shots were fired, and no threats were made against the school.

Saline County Emergency Management reminded the public that 911 should only be used for reporting emergencies, not for information inquiries during active situations.

School officials expressed gratitude to the Salina Police Department and first responders for their quick and thorough response.