BARRIE, Ontario — A tense afternoon unfolded at Innisdale Secondary School on Tuesday after the school was placed under lockdown as Barrie Police officers swarmed the area in response to a potential threat. The lockdown has since been lifted, and police confirm that a criminal investigation is currently underway.
Multiple police units responded to the south Barrie campus shortly after noon, prompting school officials to initiate a full lockdown procedure to protect students and staff. Witnesses described a large police presence both inside and outside the school, with officers searching the area and closely monitoring the surrounding streets.
Authorities have confirmed that two individuals have been detained in connection with the ongoing investigation. The nature of the alleged incident has not been officially disclosed, but officers have emphasized that the situation is now under control and there is no further threat to public safety.
“Our officers responded swiftly and appropriately to ensure everyone’s safety,” said a spokesperson for the Barrie Police Service. “We appreciate the cooperation of students, staff, and parents during what was understandably a stressful situation.”
During the lockdown, students were instructed to remain in their classrooms while police conducted a building-wide search. Many parents rushed to the school after receiving alerts about the lockdown, while others gathered updates from social media and local news outlets.
By mid-afternoon, the school board confirmed that the lockdown had been lifted and that all students and staff were safe. Barrie Police maintained a visible presence in the area even after the lockdown ended, continuing to interview witnesses and collect evidence related to the investigation.
Local residents praised the quick and coordinated response by police and school officials, noting that such swift action likely prevented a more serious situation.
“It was frightening at first, but the officers handled it very professionally,” said one parent who arrived shortly after the lockdown began. “We’re just grateful everyone is okay.”
No injuries have been reported, and investigators have not released the identities of the individuals taken into custody. The Simcoe County District School Board stated that counseling and support services will be made available to any students affected by the incident.
Barrie Police have urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information online while the investigation remains active.
Anyone with information or video footage from the area around Innisdale Secondary School during the incident is encouraged to contact Barrie Police Service or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
This remains a developing story, and further updates are expected as police continue their investigation.