Lockdown lifted at Grand River Collegiate Institute

CTV’s Karis Mapp explains what led to a lockdown and several hold-and-secures at schools in Kitchener.

Waterloo Regional Police say a swatting call led to a lockdown at Grand River Collegiate Institute in Kitchener.

It was initiated Monday morning to keep students safe during the ensuing investigation. Chicopee Hills Public School, Crestview Public School, Lackner Woods Public School, Stanley Park Public School, Canadian Martyrs Catholic Elementary School and St. Daniel’s Elementary School were also placed into hold and secure protocols as a precaution.

Police received reports of a person with a gun inside the high school around 9:20 a.m.

“Officers responded and searched the school, clearing it. No suspect was located,” Const. Melissa Quarrie with the Waterloo Regional Police said. “As a result of the continuing investigation, investigators believe that this was a swatting incident and the investigation is ongoing.”

“Swatting” refers a fake report made to elicit a large police response.

“We do have individuals who call and make false reports but are not necessarily considered swatting. Swatting incidents typically are meant to generate a large police presence. So, whether that be reports of a shooting, reports of violence, reports to cause serious harm, those are typically determined to be swatting incidents,” Quarrie explained.

She said responding to those false reports can take up an enormous amount of resources, including calling in police officers and paramedics.

“There are various consequences that could result. There are charges, including public mischief, uttering threats. We’ve had individuals charged with uttering threats to cause death, public mischief and the like.”

She confirmed the investigation is ongoing.

“We’re asking anyone with information to contact our General Investigations Unit. If anyone wishes to remain anonymous, they can contact Crime Stoppers.”

In a statement sent to CTV News at 3:54 p.m., the Waterloo Region District School Board said the lockdown and hold-and-secures were lifted at 12:20 p.m.

“The safety and well-being of Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) students and staff are our top priority. These schools remained in lockdown or hold and secure until we were assured by Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) that it was safe to return to their regular school routines,” the statement said, in part.