Crime & Safety
Joliet West Students Finally Leave: Lockdown Afterschool Ends
Joliet police dogs and officers were working around the high school athletic fields as the students remained stuck in the building.
JOLIET — Around 4:15 p.m. on Friday, Joliet West High School students were finally being released from their high school campus on Larkin Avenue. Friday's school lockdown lasted for several hours and extended after class was supposed to be dismissed for the rest of the day.
District 204 posted the following statement on Facebook:
"Joliet West Secure and Hold Protocol Lifted: The secure and hold protocol at West Campus has been lifted. The campus was searched, and no weapon was found. Law enforcement has determined this rumor to be unsubstantiated.
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"We thank our students, staff and law enforcement for their cooperation, and our families for their patience. Transportation will be provided to bus-riders, and families can now pick up their students. Afterschool activities, athletics, and events will continue as scheduled unless otherwise communicated by a coach or sponsor. The Joliet West Varsity Football game will be delayed until 7:30 p.m. with gates opening at 6:30 p.m. Thank you once again for your patience."
Here's what comments people were sharing on the District 204 Facebook page on Friday afternoon:
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"My son said that they already found the person."
"I just messaged my son and teacher said they're still looking as of 2 p.m."
"My son said the cops are checking the lockers by the little theater hallway now."
"My son is messaging me that the teacher won't tell them what there looking for. Just a weapon."
"My 15 yr old said as of 10 minutes ago no one has come into his classroom yet to check anything."
"City needs to be on curfew tonight."
"Lord please protect that building and our kids/ teachers. Make sure they get the responsibility person and make them accountable for their actions. I don’t care if is a rumor they need to be accountable!"
"No updates at the moment. We are all waiting to hear something. I have grandbabies there."
"Still no updates… JPD is on campus guarding doors."
"Good job informing the community right away. Praying everyone stays safe."
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