Reports of an armed man yesterday triggered lockdowns in schools in a Ajax neighbourhood, according to both Durham District School Board (DDSB) and Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS).
On Wednesday, schools in a Whitby neighbourhood were placed under Hold and Secure during a robbery at a pharmacy nearby [see below].
DDSB said AG Bell Public School has been placed in lockdown as a precaution by the DRPS.
Several schools are in Hold and Secure in the area of Rossland Road and Harkins Drive in Ajax for a police investigation. We will update when this is cleared, said the DRPS in a tweet.
“Police are investigating. Everyone at the school is safe. We will provide more information once the lockdown has been lifted,” said another DDSB tweet.
It said nearby schools including Pickering High School are under hold and secure as DRPS investigation continues.
DRPS West Division tweeted that officers searched for a suspicious male allegedly armed on the property of AG Bell PS.
“Police searched the school with negative results. Hold and Secure protocols are in process of being lifted. Our school officers will remain in the area,” said a DRPS tweet.
About half an hour later, it announced that the lockdown at AG Bell PS has been lifted by the DRPS. “Thank you to staff and students for their cooperation.”
It clarified that the hold and secure at nearby schools has also been lifted by DRPS.
“Thanks to all school communities for following protocols.”