Police Provide Update on Gun Call at SE Minnesota School

Austin, MN (KROC-AM News)- The Austin Police Department has released more information regarding a gun call that prompted a lockdown at Austin High School Wednesday afternoon. 

Law enforcement responded to the school around noon after the Austin Police Department’s School Resource Officer requested assistance in response to the report of a gun being brandished at the school. Officials said Wednesday the initial investigation did not uncover evidence to indicate a gun had been brandished. 

Austin Police Chief David McKichan said Thursday morning that investigators have not been able to substantiate the report of a gun being in the school. He said it was not a Swatting call because the report originated from inside of the school. 

McKichan said the report came in after an altercation occurred in one of the school’s bathrooms. No injuries were reported in the altercation. Officers did detain a 15-year-old boy and 16-year-old boy. 

The teens were brought to the Mower County Law Enforcement Center where they spoke with law enforcement before being released, McKichan said. The Austin Police Chief thanked the school’s students and staff along with the public for their patience during the investigation Wednesday.