Report Of Man Carrying Rifle Prompts Lockdown At Schools In Union County

LINDEN, NJ — A 911 caller who reported a man carrying a rifle in the area prompted a lockdown at Linden Public Schools on Wednesday morning.

The call came in around 7:50 a.m. reporting the man carrying a rifle was in the area of E. Elizabeth Avenue and N. Park Avenue, said Linden Police.

Officers immediately went to the area and were unable to locate the suspect.

Nearby schools were notified and took appropriate precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students and faculty.

Officers confirmed that the man in question was not in possession of a weapon, and the lockdown was lifted at around 9:15 a.m., said Linden Police.

"Nothing is more precious than our children, and we take any potential threat to their safety very seriously," said Linden Police Chief David Hart. "I want to thank the Elizabeth Police Department, Linden Public Schools, and our school parents for their assistance this morning. Fortunately, this incident was proven untrue, but I encourage everyone to continue to be vigilant and report suspicious activity as we begin the holiday season."

Linden Public Schools are scheduled for early dismissal today, and residents can expect an increased presence around all schools throughout the day.

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