“Swatting” incident at Austin High School triggers police operation, call came from Florida

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin High School was placed under lockdown Wednesday morning after a false emergency call that authorities said came from Florida.

Austin Independent School District (AISD) police responded to the call, which they initially believed came from the school. The campus was initially placed on “secure” status, preventing anyone from entering or leaving the building.

AISD officials later announced that officers searched the building and determined the campus was safe. They believe the incident was a case of “swatting,” which is when a false report is made to provoke an emergency response.

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“After an investigation by Austin ISD Police and the Austin Police Department, it was determined that the incident was a swatting call from Florida,” Principal Melvin Bedford said in a letter to families.

Security measures were lifted and school operations returned to normal after the police raid was completed.

Bedford praised the quick response of law enforcement and administrative officials.

We recognise that this experience may have caused anxiety for students and staff and we encourage you to talk to your child about today. We know these conversations can be difficult, so we have provided some helpful conversation starters. If you notice your child is struggling, please contact the school office to be put in touch with one of our school counsellors.

The incident remains under investigation. AISD officials ask anyone with information about suspicious activity to contact AISD Police at 512-414-1703.