Lincoln High School Lockdown After Concerning Social Media Message

Wisconsin Rapids, Wis. (WFHR, WIRI) – Wisconsin Rapids Police Officers responded to Lincoln High School around 10:45 AM on Wednesday, September 18th to investigate the report of a concerning social media message. It was reposted on a Snapchat group that LHS students are members in. The school resource officer, building administration, and the Wisconsin Rapids Police Department started an immediate investigation. They placed the building in a “Code Yellow” precautionary lockdown. WRPD determined the message was not relevant to Lincoln High School. It originated in the state of New York and law enforcement officials were investigating the matter through their department. The LHS building was released to an all-clear Code Green around 11:25 AM.

Why were some classrooms dark?

Superintendent Ron Rasmussen said staff members are trained in ALICE protocols. This stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate. As part of the protocol, staff are empowered to make decisions based on what they are hearing outside their classroom. Staff may choose to move students away from doorways, shut off lights, and keep students quiet if they deem that is necessary.

Superintendent Rasmussen issued a statement shortly after the lockdown explaining what took place and assuring parents, guardians, and students that there was no danger.

WRPD Statement

Wisconsin Rapids Police Department Lieutenant Ross Radtke posted an Incident Update on the Department’s Facebook page on Wednesday afternoon. Lt. Radtke stated, “Due to the nature of the message, there was a large police response to assure the safety of the students. Throughout this investigation, it was learned that the message originated from the state of New York and did not pertain to Lincoln High School. Law enforcement officials from the jurisdiction in New York were notified and the matter was already under investigation through their department.”

Letter issued to parents through Parent Square

Superintendent Ron Rasmussen said WRPD determined within 35 minutes that the threat was not directed towards Lincoln High School and the school was taken out of lockdown. He commended the students who came forward saying they did exactly what they should do in that situation.