Cerritos High School had undergone a lockdown in response to a potential gun threat, prompting action from authorities and mandating proper safety guidelines. On May 4 at 10:56 a.m., The school’s intercoms told teachers to lock their classrooms, disrupting regularly scheduled classes and the ongoing AP Exams. Police originally reported a man carrying a handgun around classroom 203. However, police later reported it was actually a swatting incident for a noncredible threat, where the perpetrator made a false emergency report for an active shooter.

As per practiced safety measures, teachers brought in as many students as possible before locking their doors, turning the lights off, and keeping sound to minimum. Students were also prohibited from going to their next periods.

“I thought it was a normal drill until the clock said ‘Attention! Attention!’ while flashing red,” said student Janold Blanshard, “it was the first time I’ve ever seen that and that’s how I knew this was serious.”

Local law enforcement, including officers from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, responded to the scene. Patrol units were on campus and in surrounding areas, ensuring public safety.

“We were getting updates that the deputies were on campus, checking doors and securing the situation,” said teacher Mr. Wade Varieur, “I didn’t hear any shots or screams or anything that you would expect.”

Cerritos High School’s administrators also sent out emails to families, informing them of the lockdown at hand and maintaining proper communication. Students were also able to leave school early under an emergency leave form with permission from parents.

“I was very proud of the SIA team, the admin, and the teachers for locking it down safely and quickly,” said Assistant Principal Dr. Thomas Flores.

At 11:50 a.m., the lockdown was cleared after safety was ensured and students were allowed to move to their next period.