Shots Fired Outside Joliet Central Puts High School into Lockdown

Joliet Central High School went into lockdown Monday afternoon after a staff member reported hearing gun fire outside the school, Joliet Township School District 204 officials said.

The incident took place shortly after 4 p.m., and everyone inside the building were prohibited from leaving to allow police to investigate, according to a press release issued by the district. There were no injuries and while police have confirmed that there was an altercation that resulted in one gun shot, there have been no arrests made yet.

The school building at 201 E. Jefferson St. was reopened at about 4:40 p.m., the release said.

Parents of students who attend both and high schools received a phone call with the following message:

"This is Joliet Township High School calling with important information. At 4:05 p.m. today, a staff member reported hearing gun fire outside the Central Campus.

"The immediately responded and Joliet Central High School was placed on lockdown. The perimeter of Joliet Central High School was secured, all JTHS procedures were followed and athletes and students were placed in safe locations.

"At 4:40 p.m. the lockdown at Joliet Central High School ended and students were released safely. No one was injured or hurt.

"We have been able to confirm that a confrontation did occur outside of the Joliet Central High School building and that at least 1 gun shot was fired.  Joliet Township High School continues to cooperate with the Joliet Police Department with this is an ongoing investigation.

"There will be an increased police presence in and around the Joliet Central High School Campus tomorrow. Metal detecting will occur tomorrow morning as students enter the building and Joliet Central High School will continue to practice all safety procedures to ensure a safe learning environment."

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