Saugus High School was put on a brief “soft lockdown” after reports of a shooting Friday, however, no evidence of a shooting has been found.

Around 1:20 p.m. Friday, the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station received a call for service reporting four students with possible gunshot wounds at Saugus High School, according to SCV Sheriff’s Station officials.

“Deputies are currently still on scene conducting an investigation. We ask for your cooperation and patience at this time. Please know the safety of the students and all school personnel is our upmost priority,” SCV Sheriff’s officials said.

A search of the area resulted in no evidence of a crime, nor any credible threats. In addition, no staff, students, nor the school resource officer posted on campus who initially responded heard any of the alleged gunshots.

“This is an incident of ‘swatting,’ and it will be under investigation by the Sheriff’s Department” confirmed Captain Justin Diez, head of the SCV Station. “We’ll take this seriously every time. (Today) gave us a chance to test our response and treat it as a training incident. In the event we get another similar call, we’ll treat it as fact and we’ll be even more prepared.”

“Swatting” is the act of calling in a false report to emergency services in order to have a large number of armed personnel dispatched under fraudulent information to an incorrect address.

Multiple cities around the county, including Eastside High School in Lancaster, received similar calls in the same time period, believed to be the result of “swatting calls,” according to the SCV Station.

Capt. Diez reminded parents and guardians that the SCV Station provides resources for tackling difficult issues with their children and loved ones, especially in the aftermath of such events.

“It is with a mixture of relief and disgust that I can report that a false ‘swatting’ phone call was received earlier this afternoon reporting gunfire at Saugus High School.  Law enforcement and site administration responded immediately and appropriately by placing the school on a soft lockdown while the campus was thoroughly checked, classroom by classroom, to ensure that everyone is safe,” said William S. Hart Union High School District Superintendent Mike Kuhlman.

Saugus High School has been removed from lockdown, according to Hart District officials.

“I understand how traumatic today’s incident is for all families – and especially for those with a memory of the tragedy in 2019.  We sincerely regret the fact that it takes time for law enforcement to complete their work.  When the shock of this false alarm fades, I hope you can appreciate that the site and local law enforcement moved quickly and efficiently to respond in a way to ensure staff and student safety,” Kuhlman said.

Saugus High School was the scene of a shooting in November 2019, when two students were killed and three others injured before the 16-year-old shooter took his own life.

“Please spread the word that the Serenity Space and the Library will be open today after school for any students, staff or family member needing additional support,” Kuhlman said. “Counseling support will also be available next week and ongoing as needed.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station at 661-260-4000. Anonymous tips can be reported by calling LA Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting the website.

Law enforcement and Los Angeles County Firefighters responded in large numbers including rescue helicopters as a precaution.

Ed. Note: This is a breaking news story; more information will be added as it becomes available. 

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