El Paso

Desert Scare Near Horizon High Ends With Empty Search

AI Assisted Icon
Published on January 27, 2026
Desert Scare Near Horizon High Ends With Empty SearchSource: Google Street View

A report of a possible armed person in the desert outside Horizon High School sent the campus into secure mode Monday afternoon, but a full police sweep turned up nothing, and classes soon returned to normal, authorities said.

Officers responded around 1:31 p.m., searched both the nearby desert and the school grounds, and did not locate anyone who posed a threat. The secure mode was lifted after the search, and the campus went back to regular operations.

According to KVIA, Horizon City police said they received the initial report at 1:31 p.m. and advised school officials to enter secure mode as a precaution. The station reported that the department posted on social media, "At no time was Horizon High School in danger," while officers carried out a thorough search of the surrounding area.

Police search and official channels

The Horizon City Police Department lists its social channels and explains how the department shares information with residents during active responses. In situations like this, officers coordinate with school administrators to secure the campus while they investigate and then notify families once the scene is cleared.

Where to get updates

Families looking for confirmation about campus status are encouraged to monitor the school's and district's official channels, including the Horizon High School, for direct contact information. Horizon High lists its address and phone number on that site, which can help parents reach the campus directly for the latest information.

Context: past safety responses in Horizon City

Horizon City police have responded to other high‑visibility incidents in the past, including a July 2025 barricade that drew deputies to a nearby neighborhood. As KVIA reported then, law enforcement frequently uses social media and on‑scene updates to keep the public informed while investigations are underway.

Horizon City police say Monday's report was cleared and classes resumed as normal. Officials encourage anyone with information about the reports to contact the Horizon City Police Department, and we will update this post if the department or district issues further statements.