Student firearm report prompts police response at SLO County school
Officers searched campus and surrounding neighborhood
– A lockdown at Monterey Elementary School was lifted after officers conducted an extensive search of the campus and surrounding area, authorities said.
At approximately 8:15 a.m. March 2, Atascadero Police Department officers responded to Monterey Elementary School, located at 3355 Monterey Road, after a student reported seeing an individual near school property who may have been in possession of a firearm.
Officers immediately conducted a safety check of the campus and confirmed there were no unauthorized individuals on school grounds. As a precaution, officers searched the surrounding area.
The California Highway Patrol helicopter assisted with the area search to check nearby neighborhoods and open spaces. Authorities initially reported that a San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office helicopter assisted, but later corrected that information.
At this time, no suspect has been located, and no firearm has been found or confirmed by responding officers. No injuries were reported.
Authorities thanked school staff, students, parents, and public safety partners for their cooperation during the response.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Atascadero Police Department at (805) 461-5051.
