© Predator Awareness

An investigation is underway following a firearms incident that occurred in Tipton on Friday afternoon, 18 July, prompting emergency safeguarding measures at a nearby school.

According to West Midlands Police, officers were called to reports of a gun being discharged on Sandgate Road, Tipton, at approximately 3:30pm. Fortunately, no injuries were reported at the scene.

Emergency Lockdown at Local School 
Due to the incident’s close proximity to a school, emergency lockdown procedures were promptly initiated. In a statement issued by Sunil Midda, Communications Officer for West Midlands Police, it was confirmed: 

“Students, parents and staff were kept on school grounds whilst police attended and made the area safe.”

Concern spread quickly across social media platforms, with unverified rumours suggesting gunshots and armed police presence. The statement from police marks the first official confirmation of the incident and its direct connection to the lockdown.

Sasha Byrne took to social media to say:

I just want to say, Glebefields school did amazing and reacted quickly and efficiently. They got all the kids and parents inside safe, locked all doors and made the children feel at ease. I don’t know what’s happened after that, but they only let us out when the area was secured by police. I don’t think anyone was hurt ❤️🤞

West Midlands Police are asking members of the public to assist with their investigation. Specifically, they are urging anyone with dashcam or doorbell footage from the area at the time to come forward. 

📞 If you have information that could help, please call 101 and quote log 3576 of 18 July.

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