Weapons Found After Alarming Post Forces Lockhart K-8 School Lockdown

Knives confiscated as VIDE and VIPD collaborate to ensure safety; school resumes following thorough inspection and all-clear confirmation

The V.I. Dept. of Education announced on Thursday the steps it took in response to a concerning and cryptic Facebook post involving Lockhart K-8 School. According to the department, due to the alarming nature of the post, school officials promptly activated security protocols on the morning of Thursday, September 19, 2024, before classes began.

The post, published on the popular Facebook group "What's Going on, St. Thomas?", suggested prayers for Lockhart K-8. The post sent the St. Thomas community into an uproar, as a fight had taken place a day earlier at the school. According to VIDE, Director of School Safety and Disaster Planning, Mr. Irvin Mason, along with school leadership and the V.I. Police Department, treated the post as a potential threat, prioritizing the safety of students, faculty, and staff.