Police Respond To Report Of Armed Person Near GSW Campus

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on May 15, 2025

4.8

Share

Initial Report and Police Response

At approximately 2:15 PM on October 26th, a 911 call was received reporting a person possibly armed with a firearm near the west entrance of the GSW campus. The caller described the individual as a male wearing a dark jacket and carrying what appeared to be a handgun. This triggered immediate action from the Americus Police Department, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, and the GSW Campus Police. Emergency protocols were activated, initiating a swift and coordinated response.

• Time of initial report: 2:15 PM, October 26, 2023
• Description of the reported armed person: Male, dark jacket, object resembling a handgun. (Note: Further details are withheld pending the ongoing investigation.)
• Law enforcement agencies involved: Americus Police Department, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, GSW Campus Police.
• Immediate actions taken by police: Establishing a perimeter around the reported location, securing the area, and initiating a search for the suspect.
• Initial assessment of the threat level: Elevated; a campus-wide lockdown was immediately implemented.

Campus Lockdown and Safety Measures

Following the initial report, GSW immediately activated its campus alert system. This emergency notification system utilizes multiple channels to reach students, faculty, and staff. A campus-wide lockdown was implemented, instructing everyone to shelter in place and await further instructions.

• Method of communication used: Text alerts, email notifications, campus website announcements, and public address system announcements within buildings.
• Description of the lockdown procedures: All buildings were secured, exterior doors locked, and individuals instructed to remain inside classrooms or offices.
• Actions taken by campus security personnel: Campus Security officers patrolled buildings, assisting with lockdown procedures and providing updates to law enforcement.
• Measures to ensure the safety of students and staff: Regular updates were provided via the campus alert system, keeping the community informed about the ongoing situation.

Investigation and Aftermath

The police investigation involved a thorough search of the campus and surrounding areas. Evidence gathering, including reviewing security camera footage and interviewing potential witnesses, was a key part of the process. Fortunately, after approximately two hours, an “all clear” announcement was issued at 4:30 PM. No suspect was found, and no injuries were reported.

• Duration of the investigation: Approximately two hours.
• Key findings from the investigation: The investigation remains ongoing; however, no credible threat was ultimately identified.
• Actions taken after the all-clear announcement: A phased return to normal campus operations was implemented, allowing students and staff to leave buildings safely.
• Planned improvements to campus security measures: A post-incident review will be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the response and identify any potential areas for improvement in campus security protocols.

Community Response and Support

The incident highlighted the importance of community support and effective crisis communication. GSW provided counseling services and support to students and staff who may have been affected by the stressful situation. The Americus community showed its resilience and support for the university.

• Community support: The local community expressed their concern and offered assistance to the GSW community.
• Emergency preparedness: The incident underscored the critical need for effective emergency preparedness and response plans at all levels.
• Crisis communication: The university's prompt and clear communication during the crisis was essential in keeping the community informed and minimizing anxiety.
• Psychological support: GSW offered counseling and mental health resources to those affected by the event.

Conclusion

The report of an armed person near the GSW campus on October 26th, 2023, prompted a rapid and coordinated response from law enforcement and the university. The effective implementation of campus safety protocols, along with clear and timely communication, helped to ensure the safety of the GSW community. While the investigation is ongoing, the incident serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of preparedness and the need for ongoing improvements in campus security.

Call to Action: Stay informed about safety alerts and emergency procedures at GSW. Familiarize yourself with campus safety protocols and resources to be prepared in case of future incidents. Regularly check the GSW website and official communication channels for updates regarding campus security and emergency response plans related to reports of armed persons near the GSW campus. Your safety is our top priority.