Winter Haven School Placed On Lockdown

WINTER HAVEN, FL — New Beginnings High School was placed on lockdown for a time Monday morning as police searched for a man who was spotted walking around outside a nearby motel with a gun and blood on his hands. The lockdown was lifted at 9:14 a.m. when the man was taken into custody.

Julie Brown of the Winter Haven Police Department said the incident began around 7:30 a.m. Monday at the Florida Garden Motel when officers responded to possible shots fired.

"Upon arrival, officers were unable to locate the subject," said Brown. "Witnesses reported that he left on foot towards Lake Hartridge Drive."

Winter Haven police used a drone and helicopter from the Polk County Sheriff's Office in the search.

"The Winter Haven Police Drone Unit deployed in the area as officers set up a perimeter on the ground," said Brown. "Ultimately, the subject was located at a home on Lake Hartridge Drive, E.

She said the man lived at the home where he was found. Police did not immediately identify the man.

"It was determined this was his residence and the family came out of the home verifying he was inside," Brown said. "Police began to hail the residence in an attempt to draw him out."

The man was treated for his injuries by first responders. No other injuries were reported.

"It is believed the cuts resulted from him breaking out windows at the motel where he was registered," Brown said.