Herrin High School lockdown triggered by blown transformer

KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

HERRIN, Ill., (KBSI) — Herrin High School was briefly placed on lockdown Friday morning after reports of possible gunfire, but police later determined the noise came from a blown transformer.

The lockdown was initiated shortly before 8 a.m. Sept. 26, when the Herrin Police Department was notified of sounds resembling gunshots east of the campus. Officers responded and investigated the area.

Police determined the sounds were caused by a transformer that had blown just east of the school. The lockdown was lifted soon after, authorities said.

“The safety of our schools and community will always remain a top priority of the Herrin Police Department,” Chief David Dorris said in a statement.