SANTA FE, Texas – Santa Fe High School was placed on lockdown after a report of popping sounds heard outside the school and in the area, according to the district.
KPRC has learned that Santa Fe Emergency Medical Services is transporting a student for a non-emergency from the school.
Police say the popping sounds were unfounded, and all other threats unfounded. Police said there was no shooting.
The lockdown was initiated at about 12:30 p.m. and was lifted about an hour later. But during the lockdown, the school went into its crisis plan.
“We got behind the teachers desk,” said Jessie Auzton. “I wasn't scared. Everyone was crying, then I started getting upset.”
Parents raced to the school after hearing directly from their kids through text messages.
"At 11:42, I said we are in lockdown,” said Kimberly Martinez, a Santa Fe High School student.
She was reading from her text messages to her dad.
“Dad said he was on his way. I said, 'OK. I love you,'" she said.
“It was nerve-wracking trying to talk to her via text,” said Daniel Williams about his daughter Madilyn. “Florida was on my mind. On social media, people were talking about popping sounds, active shooter, you hope your child is OK.”
The district issued this response:
"At approximately 12:30 p.m. today, Santa Fe High School was placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure as a result of a report of popping sounds thought to be gun shots heard outside the school and in the area. All necessary precautions were taken in an effort to provide safety for all students and staff, and the district's crisis management plan was immediately initiated.
"The district followed our crisis emergency plan and protocols as our SFISD Police Department, campus staff and students responded well as they have been trained to do during a campus lockdown. The lockdown was lifted at approximately 1:45 p.m., after determining that there was no threat or harm to our students and staff. There were no concerns at any other campuses in the district.
"In light of recent tragic nationwide events, we realize that this incident was especially concerning for our students, staff and parents. We appreciate your support as we continue to focus on providing a safe environment for all our students and staff."
The Santa Fe Police Department issued the following statement:
"The Santa Fe PD responded to Santa Fe High School this morning in reference to a precautionary lockdown, after a report of shots being fired in the surrounding area. Officers from the Santa Fe PD assisted Santa Fe ISD, GCSO, and GC Pct 2 Constables performed a sweep of the campus, finding no credible threat. There were no reported injuries. One student was transported by EMS due to medical issues unrelated to the incident."