YORKTOWN — The York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported phone threat directed at Grafton Bethel Elementary School Friday.
According to the sheriff’s office, the school was been placed in a precautionary modified lockdown while deputies conducted a thorough investigation, and there was a heavy law enforcement presence at the school while deputies and investigators worked alongside school administrators to ensure the safety of all students and staff.
During a modified lockdown, entry and exit to the school is restricted while students and staff follow their normal indoor routines. That lockdown has been lifted.
“In consultation with the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office, the school is lifting our modified lockdown as of 1:30 p.m.,” York County School Division said on its Facebook page.
At this time, the sheriff’s office said there is no evidence of an active threat, but all safety measures were being taken out of an abundance of caution.
“Our priority is the safety of our students, school personnel, and community members. We ask parents and guardians to refrain from coming to the school at this time to allow law enforcement and school officials to continue their work without interruption. We will provide updates as more information becomes available. We thank the community for their patience and understanding,” the sheriff’s office said.
