Suspect Sought Near 3 Temecula Schools Prompting Lockdown Friday Remains At Large

TEMECULA, CA — Three Temecula Valley schools were placed on lockdown on Friday as the Riverside County Sheriff's Department Southwest Station deputies sought a suspect in the area, officials say.

Just after 12 p.m., deputies attempted a vehicle stop in the area of Margarita Road and Rancho California Road regarding a vehicle code violation, Riverside County Sheriff's Department Lt. Deirdre Vickers told Patch.

"The vehicle failed to yield, and a pursuit was initiated," she said. The pursuit terminated in the 42000 block of Sweet Shade Lane when the driver ran from the vehicle.

"Three passengers remained in the vehicle and were detained without incident," according to Vickers. "A search of the area was conducted to locate the driver; however, he was not found. In an abundance of caution, a nearby school was placed on lockdown while the search was conducted.

At 12:45 p.m., Margarita Middle School, Temecula Elementary and Rancho Elementary School were all locked down, TVUSD spokesperson Mike Marble told Patch. Parents received notice that their students' schools were on lockdown, sparking concern among many who took to social media.

"There was no activity on the campuses or grounds, but law enforcement activity in the neighborhood," Marble said. "The lockdown was in partnership with law enforcement, and we appreciate their efforts in keeping the campuses safe."

The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details are available.

The school doors were locked for about 40 minutes total, and by 1:45 p.m., the incident had concluded.