Apalachee High School: Multiple shooting victims at high school, one person arrested
Apalachee High School is in Winder, about 45 miles outside of Atlanta.
Several people were injured during an active shooter incident at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, on Wednesday morning, according to Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith.
The sheriff's office confirmed that one suspect is in custody.
However, details regarding the number of victims and their conditions remain unclear at this time.
Seventeen-year-old senior Sergio Caldera was in his chemistry class when he heard gunshots.
"Our teacher went to the door to check what was happening, but another teacher rushed in and warned her to close it because there was an active shooter," Caldera told ABC News.
He explained that their teacher quickly locked the door, and the students ran to the back of the room. Caldera recalled hearing screams from outside as they "huddled up" together.
At one point, Caldera recalled someone pounding on the classroom door, shouting "open up!" repeatedly. After the knocking ceased, he heard more gunshots and screams.
Later, his class evacuated to the football field.
Apalachee High School has been "cleared for dismissal," while all other Barrow County schools remain under a "soft lockdown," according to the Barrow County School District.
"For the safety of everyone, please do not visit your child's school at this time. We cannot release students during a lockdown," the district said in a statement. "We will notify you as soon as the Barrow County Sheriff's Office gives the all-clear for dismissal."
Winder is located approximately 45 miles outside of Atlanta.
President Joe Biden has been briefed on the shooting, and the White House stated, "His administration will continue coordinating with federal, state, and local officials as more information becomes available."
Agents from the FBI and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation are currently on the scene.
Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed his sorrow, saying, "I'm devastated for the families impacted by this terrible tragedy. The Justice Department is prepared to offer any resources or support needed."
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp stated that he is "praying for the safety of those in our classrooms, both in Barrow County and throughout the state."
In Atlanta, authorities will "increase patrols" around schools on Wednesday "out of an abundance of caution," Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens announced in a statement.
"My prayers are with the high school students, staff, and families impacted by the senseless act of violence in Winder," Dickens said.
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