BARROW COUNTY, Ga. — Apalachee High School in Winder, Barrow County, was placed on a hard lockdown Wednesday morning due to a shooting incident, according to officials.
FOX 5 Atlanta began receiving multiple calls and messages about a potential shooting before it was officially confirmed.
SkyFOX 5 flew over the scene, where emergency responders were seen treating individuals at the school. At least two people were observed being airlifted to hospitals for treatment. Numerous law enforcement officers and ambulances were also stationed outside the school.
Grady Memorial Hospital confirmed at 12:20 p.m. that they had received one gunshot victim from the school, but no further details were provided.
Shortly before 11:30 a.m., the school informed FOX News that it had been cleared and students were being released to their families. Parents can pick up their children from the school, and buses will also be available for students needing transportation home. The school stated that additional information would be provided as soon as possible.
The Barrow County Sheriff's Office confirmed to FOX News around 11:30 a.m. that there was an active shooter situation earlier this morning. Multiple law enforcement agencies and emergency responders were dispatched to the school around 10:30 a.m. They also confirmed that one person has been taken into custody.
In addition, Barrow-Winder High School was briefly placed on a hard lockdown, but that lockdown has since been lifted.
The FBI has confirmed their response to the scene.
FBI Atlanta is aware of the situation at Apalachee High School in Barrow County. Our agents are on-site, working in coordination with and supporting local law enforcement.
Additionally, Governor Brian Kemp issued a statement on X:
The White House confirmed that President Joe Biden has been briefed on the shooting by Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall. The administration is coordinating with federal, state, and local officials.
Mayor Andre Dickens released the following statement:
"My thoughts and prayers are with the students, staff, and families affected by this tragic act of violence in Winder, Georgia. I have been in contact with Chief Schierbaum, and the Atlanta Police Department is working with the Atlanta Public Schools Police Department to enhance patrols around our schools for the remainder of the day as a precaution. APD is also on standby to assist with this incident if needed. May God provide comfort to the victims and their families during this challenging time."