Crest High School in Shelby went into lockdown today, after a phone call to authorities reported an active shooter on campus. Deputies quickly moved in, searched the grounds and buildings, and cleared the school within about an hour. No evidence of a shooting was found, no injuries were reported, and investigators are now working to track down whoever placed the call while the school returns to normal operations.
Officials say campus cleared, no injuries
The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office confirmed the basic timeline and outcome, according to WBTV. Authorities said Crest High went into lockdown at roughly 8:10 a.m., and deputies had finished clearing the campus about an hour later. Investigators remained on scene into the morning as they continued trying to identify the source of the original phone call.
Regional pattern: swatting and false calls
Incidents like this are not new to the Charlotte region, where swatting-style hoax calls have repeatedly drawn heavy law-enforcement responses. An April 2024 wave of false active-shooter reports at area schools was serious enough to get the attention of the FBI, according to WSOC. Officials and lawmakers have warned that these fake calls waste critical resources and create real danger, which is why local agencies put a high priority on tracing and prosecuting the people behind them.
What families should watch for
Cleveland County Schools and local law enforcement say they rely on established lockdown and reunification protocols to protect students and staff in situations like Monday's call. Families looking for verified information are urged to stick to official channels, including Crest High and the district newsroom, for updates from school and sheriff's office officials.
