Lake Elsinore, CA – A heavy law enforcement and emergency response presence surrounded Lakeside High School in Lake Elsinore on Friday afternoon after reports of an assault with a deadly weapon prompted a campus-wide lockdown.

The incident caused fear and confusion among students, parents, and staff as deputies and firefighters rushed to secure the scene and ensure the safety of those on campus.

Swift Response From Authorities

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that deputies were dispatched to the high school shortly after reports of a possible assault with a deadly weapon were received.

At the same time, Cal Fire crews also responded, prepared to provide immediate medical assistance should injuries be reported. The campus was quickly placed on lockdown, with students and staff ordered to shelter in place while law enforcement conducted searches and secured the perimeter.

Sheriff’s deputies established a command post outside the school, while tactical units and patrol officers swept through hallways and classrooms. Helicopters were reported circling the area, providing aerial support as the situation unfolded.

Parents and Community on Edge

As news of the lockdown spread, concerned parents rushed to the campus and nearby staging areas, desperate for information about their children’s safety. Authorities urged families to avoid the school grounds until the situation was resolved, emphasizing that deputies needed space to operate effectively.

Witnesses described a tense atmosphere, with dozens of emergency vehicles lined up outside the school and sirens echoing through the surrounding community. “It was terrifying,” said one student who managed to text a family member during the lockdown. “We didn’t know what was happening, just that we had to stay quiet and follow directions.”

Unclear Circumstances

As of Friday evening, authorities had not yet released detailed information about the nature of the reported assault, whether a firearm or another weapon was involved, or if any suspects had been taken into custody. No confirmed injuries had been announced, though officials stressed that the investigation was ongoing.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department stated in a preliminary release:

“We responded to Lakeside High School following reports of an assault with a deadly weapon. The campus was secured and placed on lockdown out of an abundance of caution. Our deputies are continuing to investigate, and we will provide further updates as soon as they become available.”

Community Reaction

The incident has rattled Lake Elsinore, a community already concerned about school safety in the wake of rising reports of threats nationwide. Parents expressed gratitude for the swift law enforcement response but also frustration over the uncertainty as they waited anxiously for updates.

“I’m thankful the deputies got there so fast,” one parent said. “But it’s every parent’s nightmare to hear your kid’s school is on lockdown.”

Next Steps

The lockdown was gradually lifted as deputies cleared the campus and deemed it safe. Classes were dismissed under controlled conditions, with law enforcement monitoring the process to ensure student safety. Investigators are expected to remain on-site into the evening, speaking with witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and gathering evidence.

The Sheriff’s Department has promised to share additional information once the facts are confirmed. In the meantime, the community of Lake Elsinore is left shaken but grateful that swift action may have prevented further harm.