Florida schools locked down after suspected ‘swatting’ incident, report says

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WFLA) — Several Florida schools were placed on a lockdown Friday after alleged threats were made to them.

Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno said the schools were locked down and search out of “an abundance of caution.”

Deputies’ efforts were focused on South Fort Myers High School during the search. However, it was soon determined that the schools were safe.

NBC affiliate WBBH said the threats were believed to be a part of a nationwide swatting event. Swatting is a type of prank call made to emergency services to lure a large number of armed officers to a location, and it can sometimes lead to fatal incidents.

Meanwhile, WSVN reported that McArthur high School in Hollywood, Florida, was also locked down after a potential shooting threat.

However, after searching the school, no shooter was found nor were there any injuries. The lockdown was lifted afterward.

NBC affiliate WTVJ reported that situation may also be a false call.

This is a developing situation. Check back for updates.