Update at 7:00 p.m., Friday afternoon from Boling ISD Superintendent Wade Stidevent:
“After the initial investigation this morning (interviews, review of surveillance, etc.), tracking down rumors that followed, and giving anyone with direct knowledge an opportunity to report; I am pleased to confirm there is no evidence to support the rumor there was a handgun on the Boling High School campus this morning.
“Apparently after the lockdown was lifted, several students suggested to their parents or others they saw a handgun. As these student names were revealed, a follow-up interview was conducted, and they admitted their claim was either misunderstood or false.
“What helped confuse the issue further is that after the lockdown was lifted, an alarming screenshot of a snapchat post of someone holding a handgun began to be shared via social media. This picture was not taken on campus and was not directed toward the school system. However, many came to their own conclusion that this was a picture of the gun that was seen on campus.
“Another issue that may have contributed to the confusion is that after the lockdown was lifted, a student was arrested for charges not related to this issue. Again, Boling ISD genuinely appreciates the response of the safety team, staff, and law enforcement for managing this issue appropriately. The safety of our students and staff is paramount.”
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On Friday morning, Wharton County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Boling Independent School District administration conducted an investigation at Boling High School following rumors and calls of shots being fired.
Despite the district implementing a precautionary active shooter lockdown, Boling ISD Superintendent Wade Stidevent told The County Gin those rumors have been determined as false.
“This morning a rumor spread rapidly that a handgun was discharged on or near Boling High School, so the campus was placed on lockdown,” Stidevent told The Gin. “After a swift, but thorough investigation by law enforcement and school administration, it was determined the rumor was falsely spread.”
The lockdown was lifted at 8:30 a.m. However, law enforcement officers will remain on campus for the remainder of the day until all accounts are fully investigated. Students who claim to have witnessed the incident are encouraged to contact the school’s principal.
“It is extremely important for anyone who has direct knowledge of this matter to contact Boling High School Principal Keith Jedlicka immediately,” Stidevent said. “We do not believe there is an impending threat related to this issue, but do want anyone with direct knowledge to be interviewed.”
Stidevent stated the first priority of the district is the safety and wellbeing of its staff and students.
“Boling ISD sincerely appreciates the quick response and assistance from the Wharton County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies,” he said. “Although appropriate action was taken, we realize a campus lockdown and strong police response generates anxiety and concern from our parents and community. Our focus will always be to ensure that our students and staff are safe.”
As reported by The County Gin, the Wharton County Sheriff’s Office previously released a statement regarding the incident. Please see WCSO sheriff addresses lockdown at Boling ISD.
For Boling ISD contact information, visit the district’s website.
