Yep, that’s a BB gun. Photo: EPD.

PREVIOUSLY:

Press release from the Eureka Police Department:

On September 12, 2023, at about 10:15 a.m., a City of Eureka employee witnessed a male enter the greenbelt near 15th and M Streets with a rifle on his back. Due to the proximity to the campus, Eureka High School was put on a lockdown out of an abundance of precaution while officers investigated.

With the assistance of the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and a Fortuna Police Department drone, officers located and detained the male in the greenbelt around 12:30 p.m. A BB gun that resembled a rifle was located and seized.

The male was ultimately questioned and released from the scene, as no threats had been made. The Eureka Police Department would like to thank the observant City employee, assisting agencies and Eureka City Schools for their swift action.

Lockdowns are oftentimes scary situations for everyone involved. In the event of future lockdowns:

  • Avoid calling the school or police
  • Do not rush to the scene
  • Check official social media pages for updates
  • Avoid spreading information that has not been confirmed by an official source
  • Educate yourself on school procedures
  • Keep your contact information current with your school