A West Sussex primary school became the centre of a major police operation on Tuesday afternoon after terrified staff reported spotting a man with what appeared to be a firearm near the premises.
Armed response units rushed to St Mary's Catholic Primary School in Bognor Regis just after 3:20 PM, prompting an immediate lockdown protocol that saw children and staff shelter inside classrooms.
Dramatic Police Response
Witnesses described a scene of controlled chaos as multiple police vehicles, including specialist firearms units, sealed off surrounding roads. Officers in tactical gear were seen entering the school building while anxious parents gathered at police cordons.
A Sussex Police spokesperson confirmed: "We responded to reports of a man seen with what was believed to be a firearm in the area of a school on Glamis Street. Armed officers attended and located a man nearby."
Swift Resolution to Terrifying Ordeal
Thankfully, the situation was resolved without injury. Police confirmed a man was located and detained in connection with the incident. Contrary to initial fears, no firearm was discovered during the search.
The lockdown was lifted approximately two hours later, with reunification procedures carefully managed by school staff and police family liaison officers.
Community Reaction
Local residents expressed shock at the dramatic events unfolding in their typically quiet coastal community. One parent, who asked not to be named, said: "Getting that text message from the school was every parent's worst nightmare. We're just relieved all the children are safe."
The school has announced it will provide counselling support for any pupils or staff affected by the traumatic lockdown experience.
