Toronto, ON – Wexford Collegiate School Placed on Lockdown Following Reports of Person with Gun
Toronto, Ontario – Authorities placed Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts on lockdown Tuesday morning after reports surfaced of a person with a gun near the intersection of Pharmacy Avenue and Lawrence Avenue East. Police quickly responded to the area to ensure the safety of students, staff, and nearby residents while assessing the credibility of the threat. The lockdown was implemented as a precautionary measure.
Toronto police confirmed that officers were dispatched immediately after receiving calls about a potential armed individual in the vicinity of the school. Authorities blocked off surrounding streets and initiated a thorough search of the area. School administrators acted quickly to secure all students and staff, following established emergency protocols to prevent any potential harm.
Staff and students at Wexford Collegiate were instructed to remain in classrooms and secure themselves inside until police determined the situation was safe. Teachers communicated with parents, keeping them informed and ensuring that students remained calm while officials investigated the report. No injuries were reported during the lockdown.
The police presence in the area was significant, with multiple units patrolling streets and conducting door-to-door inquiries to gather information about the potential suspect. Authorities emphasized that the lockdown was a precaution, but stressed that all reports of armed individuals are treated seriously until verified.
Toronto police urged residents in the area to remain indoors and avoid the intersection near Pharmacy Avenue and Lawrence Avenue East. Officers requested that anyone with information about the individual or suspicious activity contact the authorities immediately. The public was reminded not to approach anyone believed to be armed.
School officials coordinated closely with police throughout the incident, ensuring that students were kept informed without causing panic. Administrators praised the calm response of both staff and students during the lockdown, highlighting the importance of preparedness in maintaining safety during potential emergencies.
Toronto Police later clarified that no shots were fired, and no injuries occurred. Investigators continue to determine whether the report of a person with a gun was accurate or a false alarm. The area remains under observation while police complete their investigation.
Parents of students were allowed to pick up their children after authorities confirmed that the threat had been neutralized. Counseling services were made available to students and staff to address any anxiety or stress caused by the incident. The school emphasized that student safety remains its top priority.
Officials reminded the public that lockdowns, while disruptive, are critical tools in preventing potential harm. Toronto Police continue to evaluate security procedures and collaborate with schools across the city to ensure rapid and effective responses to threats involving firearms.
The Wexford Collegiate lockdown incident underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and coordination between schools, law enforcement, and the community. While no injuries or fatalities occurred, the event serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness, rapid response, and clear communication to protect students, staff, and the wider public from potential threats.
