MOUNT HOREB, Wis. – Authorities responded to a concerning situation at Mount Horeb Middle School, where a student was reported to be outside the school with a weapon. The school immediately went into lockdown, with some students remaining in their classrooms while others were evacuated as a precaution.
Law enforcement officers, including Mount Horeb police, arrived at the scene and confronted the student with the weapon. Tragically, the situation resulted in the fatal shooting of the student, who was revealed to be a minor and a student within the school district. The student was reported to be 14 years old, according to sources.
Fortunately, the student did not make it inside the school building and was shot outside the premises. It was not disclosed whether the student had fired any shots towards the school or the police. Officials confirmed that there were no physical injuries to anyone else involved in the incident.
“This is any parent’s nightmare,” expressed Attorney General Josh Kaul, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. While there is currently no believed threat to public safety, a thorough law enforcement investigation is ongoing to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired.
In response to the incident, some Mount Horeb police officers have been placed on leave as part of standard practice following the use of force. Moreover, they were equipped with body cameras during the confrontation, providing valuable footage for the investigation.
Families were gradually reunited with their children on Wednesday evening, offering a sense of relief and gratitude for their safety. Ali Peterson, a parent with children in Mount Horeb schools, expressed her thankfulness and pride in the school district for swiftly addressing a potentially catastrophic situation.
As a result of the incident, classes at Mount Horeb Middle School were canceled on Thursday. However, the schools will be open to provide support to students and staff. School District Superintendent Dr. Steve Salerno expressed hope for classes to resume by Friday, aiming to restore a sense of normalcy to the school community in the wake of the tragic events.