Lockdown lifted: Wharton ISD schools resume day after ammo found on campus

Wharton High School and Wharton Junior High School are no longer on lockdown

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WHARTON, Texas – Wharton Independent School District officials placed some of its schools on lockdown Friday after ammunition was found on campus Friday morning.

Both Wharton High School and Wharton Junior High School were affected by the lockdown “until further notice,” but that was lifted at 9:35 a.m., issuing this statement:

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“Wharton Tiger Community,

“This morning at arrival, a round of ammunition was found by a teacher on the ground outside of the Wharton High School cafeteria. As a precautionary measure, we placed the campus on lockdown. The campus was secured and law enforcement conducted a thorough search of the campus. All buses were held on the bus ramp and parents were asked not to bring any additional students on campus until the lockdown was lifted. After the campus was searched, no weapons or other ammunition were found. The lockdown was lifted and students were allowed to safely transition to class. At this time, we have no further comments.

“As always, the safety of our students and staff are our top priority. Sincerely,

“Michael J. O’Guin, Sr. Superintendent of Schools”

There’s no word on the origin of the ammunition at this time.

This update comes after the district sent out this message at 7:43 a.m.:

“Wharton High School and Wharton Junior High School Parents, this morning, a round of ammunition was found on the ground outside of the Wharton High School cafeteria. As a precaution, until further notice, the district has placed Wharton High School and Wharton Junior High School on lockdown. We are asking parents, at this time, do not bring students to either campus and all buses are being held on the bus ramp. The safety of our students and staff are our top priority.”


About the Authors

Moriah Ballard joined the KPRC 2 digital team in the fall of 2021. Prior to becoming a digital content producer in Southeast Texas and a Houstonian, Moriah was an award-winning radio host in her hometown of Lorain, Ohio, and previously worked as a producer/content creator in Cleveland. Her faith, family, and community are her top passions.

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