UPDATE: Possible weapon prompts hold and secure at Vernon high school
Kalamalka Secondary School was placed under a hold and secure by Vernon RCMP for several hours today following a report of a possible weapon.
Officers were called to the Coldstream high school at around 10:30 a.m. today, Nov. 7, to a report of a possible weapon in the area.
Principal Jeff Huggins told parents that police were called to the school and the security measure was out of an “abundance of caution.” Generally, a hold and secure means that students and staff are not allowed to enter or leave the building.
School District 22 superintendent Dr. Christine Perkins confirmed the high school was under a hold and secure, and later said it had been lifted by police. She couldn't comment on what instigated the security measure.
Officers attended the school until a thorough assessment of the situation determined that the hold and secure protocol could be lifted, RCMP said. In consultation with police, school administration lifted the hold and secure and normal activities at the school resumed.
"The safety of our students and our schools is our top priority," Vernon North Okanagan RCMP Const. Chris Terleski said in a media release. "In response to any potential threats, all necessary steps to ensure their safety will be taken."
The police investigation into the incident continues.
— This story was updated at 1:28 p.m. Nov. 7, 2023, to add that the hold and secure has been lifted.
— This story was updated at 2:30 p.m. Nov.7, 2023, to include new information from Vernon RCMP.
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