Families seek reassurance as armed police search after Gloucester schools enter lockdown; boy taken to hospital

Police search after altercation

Armed officers are looking for a group of people who left the area following an altercation. Two schools were placed in lockdown as the search continued. The force said a boy had been taken to hospital with minor injuries. The report did not identify the group or say where they had gone.

Parents describe their concern

Adam, whose daughter attends St Peter's, said he was frightened, although he had contacted her by text and knew she was safe. He said the school had sent parents a message saying matters were under control.

A parent waiting outside the school gates said the family was “so worried” and would not leave. The parent said her daughter, in Year 8, and nephew, in Year 7, could not be contacted because pupils were not allowed to have phones in school.

School message aimed to reassure

The parent said the school’s communication was intended to reassure families and respond to their questions. The parent added that it was not a sign that anyone faced a risk or threat.

The report gives no further details about the altercation or the police search. It also does not say when the lockdown would end.