Moncton Lockdown: Bessborough and Hillcrest Schools Placed Under Lockdown Following Heavy Police Presence in Neighbourhoo
On Wednesday afternoon, two schools in the Bessborough Avenue area of Moncton were placed under lockdown following a heavy police presence in the neighbourhood. The lockdown was initiated as a precautionary measure due to an emergency operation taking place nearby.
The Anglophone East School District notified parents and families that Bessborough and Hillcrest schools were placed under lockdown at approximately noon. The decision was made to guarantee the security and welfare of all those involved.
Concurrently, Bernice MacNaughton High School enforced hold and secure measures. According to Superintendent Randolph J. MacLean, “The students and staff are safe, and there have been no documented instances of harm.” MacLean also affirmed that the school district is in contact with the RCMP and will promptly provide any updates as they arise.
The RCMP initially asked people to avoid the area, but stressed that the situation did not meet the criteria for an Alert Ready message. An hour after the lockdown was initiated, the RCMP provided an update stating that they had “ascertained that there was no criminal activity involved.”
The heavy police presence in the neighbourhood was part of a police operation that has not been disclosed to the public. Fire crews were also on the scene, and yellow police tape cordoned off a large area.
The lockdown of the two schools was lifted after the RCMP determined that there was no criminal activity involved. The students and staff were deemed safe, and there were no documented instances of harm.
The incident highlights the importance of prioritizing safety in schools and the need for effective communication between law enforcement, school districts, and the public during emergency situations.
The RCMP and the Anglophone East School District have been praised for their swift response to the situation and their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in emergency situations. It also highlights the need for ongoing communication and collaboration between law enforcement, school districts, and the public to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Anglophone East School District has reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff. The district has also expressed its gratitude to the RCMP and other emergency responders for their prompt and effective response to the situation.