One Arrested After Report of Shot Fired Outside Wakefield High School on Saturday
A heavy police presence descended on Wakefield High School over the weekend after reports of gunfire on the property.
Arlington County Police say officers were dispatched to the school grounds at approximately 7 p.m. on Saturday after receiving a call about a man who had allegedly fired a shot into the air. The incident occurred outside the building, which was largely empty at the time due to the weekend.
According to a police spokesperson, witnesses reported seeing a man brandish a firearm and discharge it once into the air before fleeing on foot. Responding officers quickly secured the area and launched a search for the suspect. After a short pursuit and investigation, a man matching the description provided by witnesses was located nearby and taken into custody without further incident.
“The quick response and coordinated effort by officers ensured that there was no ongoing threat to the community,” Arlington County Police said in a statement released Sunday morning. “We are grateful for the vigilance of those who reported the incident promptly.”
Authorities have not yet publicly identified the suspect, citing the ongoing investigation. Charges against him are pending, and police say they recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the incident. No injuries were reported.
Although Wakefield High School was not hosting a major event at the time of the shooting, the incident caused alarm among local residents and school officials. Parents and neighbors expressed concern about safety around school facilities, especially as the campus is often used for community gatherings outside regular school hours.
“This is frightening,” said one parent, who asked not to be named. “Our kids should feel safe even when they’re just playing around the school on a weekend. I’m glad no one was hurt, but it’s a reminder that things can change so quickly.”
Arlington Public Schools said in a brief statement that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and are reviewing their security measures to ensure the safety of students, staff, and community members who use school grounds after hours.
Police said there is no indication that the suspect had any connection to the school or that students were being specifically targeted. Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the shooting.
The area was cleared by police after about two hours, once officers had confirmed there was no continuing threat. The school grounds were re-opened later Saturday evening.
This incident comes amid heightened concerns nationally about security on school campuses, even during off-hours. Local law enforcement has emphasized the importance of the community’s role in reporting suspicious activity promptly, which they said contributed significantly to the rapid resolution of Saturday’s situation.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is asked to contact Arlington County Police.
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