Active Shooter Neutralized Outside Wisconsin Middle School, No Injuries Reported Inside

An active shooter was reported outside Mount Horeb Middle School in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. The Mount Horeb Area School District said the alleged assailant was "neutralized" outside the building and did not breach the school's entryway. No injuries were reported inside the school, with the exception of the alleged assailant who was harmed.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene with children fleeing the area amid the sound of gunshots around 11:15 a.m. "I heard about five gunshots and saw dozens of kids running," said one witness near the school. Authorities from multiple law enforcement agencies swiftly responded to the scene.

The school district placed all of its schools on a "hard lockdown" while police searched the middle school. An initial sweep did not locate any additional suspects. "The threat has been neutralized outside of the building," the district said, without providing further details about the alleged assailant or their status.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the ongoing concern over school shootings and the need for robust security measures to protect students. It also emphasizes the importance of swift response by law enforcement and school staff in active shooter situations to prevent loss of life.

Students at the middle school and nearby intermediate center were later evacuated to an alternate site to be reunited with family members. Anxious parents had gathered near the school and a bus depot, seeking information about their children's safety. The district said it was "grateful for the response of our students and staff" during the lockdown.

The FBI is assisting state and local authorities in responding to the incident. Mount Horeb is a small town of about 7,500 residents, located approximately 20 miles west of Madison, Wisconsin. "We are thankful there were no physical injuries to students and staff," said Mount Horeb Police Chief Doug Vierck in a brief statement. The identity of the alleged assailant has not been released as the investigation continues.

Key Takeaways

• Active shooter reported outside Mount Horeb Middle School, Wisconsin.
• Alleged assailant "neutralized" outside school, no injuries reported inside.
• School placed on lockdown, students later evacuated to reunite with families.
• Incident highlights ongoing concern over school shootings, need for security.
• FBI assisting in investigation, identity of alleged assailant not released.