April 30, 2025

North Charleston High School Lockdown Due to Unfounded Threat

News Summary

On April 25, 2025, North Charleston High School was placed on lockdown after local police received an unfounded text threat. A significant police presence was established as officers investigated the area. The situation, which also affected the nearby Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies, was deemed safe by early afternoon. The swift police response and communication with the community underscored the importance of school safety protocols, highlighting the challenges schools face in ensuring security amid perceived threats.

North Charleston – On April 25, 2025, North Charleston High School was placed on lockdown following an unfounded text threat received by the local police. The situation unfolded when the police hotline was alerted to the potential danger, prompting immediate action from law enforcement.

North Charleston police officers quickly cordoned off a section of Jenkins Avenue near the high school with yellow crime scene tape. A substantial police presence was established, consisting of over a dozen police vehicles and numerous officers who conducted a thorough investigation of the area. As the investigation progressed, police confirmed that the threat was ultimately unfounded. No specific details regarding the text threat were released to the public.

By early afternoon, officials deemed the school safe, and students were allowed to be released at the regular time. An automated message was sent to parents to inform them about the lockdown measures, which were enacted purely as a precaution while law enforcement assessed the situation. Additionally, the Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies, situated directly across from North Charleston High School, was also placed into a Secure and Hold status as a precaution during the police investigation.

Around 2 p.m. on the same day, police began to stand down, reporting that there was no active threat present. J. Demalo, the acting spokesperson for the police department, stated that no weapons were recovered, and no persons of interest were identified in the investigation. Before law enforcement confirmed the safety of both schools, the atmosphere around Jenkins Avenue was described as intense, with students returning from local businesses initially unable to cross the street back to the school due to ongoing police activity. This included a critical announcement made at 1:37 p.m. over the school loudspeaker instructing students to shelter in place and lock exterior doors.

The police response was part of a protocol designed to ensure the safety of students and staff amid reports of a serious threat. Following the incident, the school district expressed its gratitude toward law enforcement for their quick reaction and the cooperation of both students and staff during the lockdown. The measures taken aimed to safeguard the community from any potential danger and to provide peace of mind to parents and families.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges schools face regarding safety and security. The swift response by police underscores the importance of community vigilance and readiness to act when threats are perceived. Authorities continue to emphasize the need for clear communication between schools, law enforcement, and families to manage such situations effectively in the future. As the investigation concludes and with no active threat identified, students and staff can return to their normal routines, reflecting the resilience of the school community in the face of uncertainty.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

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