HANCOCK - A report of shots fired at Hancock Central School on Thursday, March 19, triggered a swift, multi-agency law enforcement response before being determined to be unfounded, school officials said.
Emergency dispatch received the 911 call earlier in the day, prompting officers to secure the campus and conduct a full investigation. Authorities later concluded there was no active threat.
“At all times, the safety of students and staff remained the District’s highest priority, and all children and employees are safe,” Superintendent Lori Asquith said in a statement.
The district implemented its emergency protocols immediately upon notification, working in coordination with law enforcement. Students and staff followed established procedures, and the building was cleared without incident.
Officials credited the response to strong coordination among agencies. The district thanked the School Resource Officer and responding departments from multiple counties for their “urgency, professionalism, and coordination.”
While the report proved false, school leaders acknowledged the disruption and concern it caused.
“Any report involving potential violence in a school setting is taken with the utmost seriousness, and the emotional impact of such moments is significant,” Asquith said.
The district said it will continue to review its procedures with emergency partners as part of ongoing efforts to maintain school safety.
