Lockdown, Shelter-In-Place At Seattle Schools After Shooting On East Cherry Street, No Injuries

Seattle police lifted lockdowns at Nova High School and nearby Garfield High School Thursday afternoon, following reports of gunfire near Nova. Although the authorities first claimed that both campuses were shut down, it was eventually determined that Garfield High School was, as a precaution, under a shelter-in-place order. Approximately 1:45 p.m., police were called to the scene of several gunshots reported close to Nova High School, along East Cherry Street. Reporters said they heard six or seven gunshots. One of the shots reportedly broke through a second-story window at Nova High School, according to a school employee. No injuries among students, staff, or surrounding homes were recorded despite the close vicinity of the bullets. Investigators suspect the occupants of the two vehicles may have been firing at each other since they were seen driving quickly away from the scene following the gunshots. The cause of the shooting is still unknown, and Seattle police are still looking into the matter.In order to protect student safety, Seattle Public Schools stressed that lockdown and shelter-in measures were implemented as soon as the gunshot was reported. After officials evaluated the situation and concluded there was no immediate threat to the public, the lockdowns were subsequently removed.Police are urging anybody with knowledge to come forward as they attempt to put together the incident's specific circumstances, which are yet unknown. Parents and locals are worried about the level of violence in the neighborhood, but the district has reassured them that safety is still their first priority. In reaction to this recent event, there may be more police patrols in the area as a precaution. Officers were still conducting witness interviews and checking over surveillance tape as of Thursday night in order to obtain further information for the investigation. Police in Seattle advise locals to be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior that they see.