WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Authorities at Sheppard Air Force Base issued an emergency alert Friday, placing the installation and nearby community on high alert following reports of a potential active shooter near Sheppard Elementary School, which is located on or adjacent to the base grounds. The alert prompted an immediate shelter-in-place order and a coordinated law enforcement response as officials rushed to assess the credibility and scope of the threat.
Base officials instructed all military personnel, civilian staff, and residents to seek shelter indoors immediately, secure doors, and await further instructions. The urgency of the order underscored the seriousness with which officials treated the reported threat, even as details remain limited.
Schools Ordered Into Lockdown
As a precautionary measure, schools in and around the Sheppard Air Force Base area were placed on lockdown. Administrators quickly moved students and staff into secure positions, following established protocols designed to minimize risk and maintain calm in emergency scenarios.
Parents in the Wichita Falls community were notified of the lockdowns, and school officials stressed that the steps were taken purely out of caution, not in response to any confirmed attack within school buildings.
Information Still Developing
At this time, authorities have not confirmed whether any shots were fired, nor have they stated whether a suspect has been identified, located, or taken into custody. Officials emphasized that the situation is evolving, and information will be released as soon as it is verified.
Security personnel are treating the threat with full seriousness until it can be conclusively resolved.
Large-Scale Response Underway
Security Forces from Sheppard Air Force Base, supported by multiple local law enforcement agencies, are conducting a coordinated sweep of the area surrounding Sheppard Elementary and the broader installation. Emergency responders are moving methodically through the affected zones, checking buildings, monitoring access points, and ensuring the safety of anyone sheltering in place.
The base has asked all residents and personnel to avoid the area, remain indoors, and refrain from calling emergency lines unless they have direct information related to the threat.
Community on High Alert
The emergency alert has cast a wave of concern across Wichita Falls, with parents, military families, and residents anxiously awaiting updates. While lockdowns and shelter-in-place orders remain active, officials continue to reassure the public that every available resource is being utilized to keep students, base personnel, and civilians safe.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, authorities stress that additional updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available and as safety assessments progress. Until then, both base personnel and surrounding communities are urged to remain vigilant and follow all official instructions.





