McDowell County Sheriff's Office: Response to Incident at McDowell High School

McDowell County -- January 22, 2025: The following was posted on the McDowell County Sheriff's Office social media yesterday:  This

morning, McDowell High School received a phone call

reporting an active shooter on campus. In response, multiple law enforcement agencies and emergency services were immediately dispatched to the school.

The campus was placed in lockdown as McDowell County Schools staff worked closely with law enforcement to implement safety protocols. After a thorough search of the campus, it was confirmed that no gunshots had been fired and there was no active threat present at McDowell High School. The scene was deemed safe, and the security of all students and staff was confirmed.

“This was a great response from law enforcement and emergency personnel, as well as a great response by the staff at McDowell High School and administrative personnel of McDowell County Schools,” said Sheriff Ricky T. Buchanan. “We extend our deepest gratitude for everyone’s swift and professional action during this incident.”

Multiple local, state and federal law enforcement agencies along with McDowell County Emergency Service personnel responded and assisted with the incident.

Image: WNCTimes

Sheriff Buchanan emphasized, “Anytime there is a call like this made to a school, we take it very seriously and want to do all we can to protect our kids and teachers. We are very happy there was no shooter, and no one was physically injured.”

The Sheriff’s Office is now concentrating its efforts on the origination of the phone call and will seek prosecution for anyone who is involved. If you have information about today’s incident, contact Captain Shanon Smith with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office at (828) 652-2235.