Miami-Dade deputies lift lockdown at two Westchester schools after reports of a potentially armed person

Lockdowns ordered, then lifted after search found no immediate threat

Two schools in Miami-Dade County were placed on lockdown after authorities received a report of a potentially armed person in the area, prompting deputies and specialized units to respond and search campuses in Westchester.

The incident led to a precautionary lockdown at Christopher Columbus High School and St. Brendan High School while deputies conducted what was described by law enforcement as a thorough search of both locations. The lockdowns were later lifted and the schools were given an all-clear.

What happened and how authorities responded

Deputies responded after receiving a report that triggered concerns about a possible weapon-related threat. Law enforcement personnel arrived rapidly, established on-scene control, and initiated a systematic sweep intended to verify whether an armed individual was present on either campus.

During the initial phase, school officials notified families that a lockdown was in effect as a precaution, emphasizing that safety procedures were being followed and that additional information would be shared as it became available.

• Schools involved: Christopher Columbus High School and St. Brendan High School, both in the Westchester area.
• Action taken: Lockdowns implemented while a search was conducted.
• Outcome: All-clear issued after the search; lockdowns lifted.

Context: A wider pattern of precautionary school safety responses

South Florida schools have periodically faced lockdowns prompted by reports of weapons, suspicious activity, or false alarms. These incidents often produce significant law-enforcement mobilizations because threats reported at or near schools require immediate verification to protect students and staff.

Law enforcement agencies have also faced an increase in hoax-driven emergency calls nationally and in Florida, including reports designed to trigger armed responses. In many cases, searches conclude without identifying an active threat, but the operational priority remains rapid containment, verification, and communication with school leadership.

When potential weapon-related reports arise near schools, standard protocol typically involves rapid response, perimeter control, and a methodical campus check before an all-clear can be issued.

What remains unknown

Authorities did not immediately release details about the origin of the report, whether any suspect was identified, or whether the incident is being treated as a false alarm. No injuries were reported in connection with the lockdowns described in publicly released updates.

Families and community members seeking updates are typically directed to school communications and local law enforcement statements as investigations determine what prompted the initial report and whether any criminal charges are warranted.