Report: Olentangy Schools Lockdown After Threat – On May 5, 2025, the Olentangy Local School District in Delaware County, Ohio, faced a significant safety scare as three of its elementary schools—Freedom Trail, Oak Creek, and Tyler Run—were placed on lockdown in response to credible threats reported to local law enforcement. The incident prompted a swift and coordinated emergency response involving the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) and school officials, underscoring the importance of established safety protocols in today’s school environments.
According to the DCSO, multiple law enforcement agencies received information indicating potential threats directed at district schools. Upon notification, the district acted decisively, enacting emergency lockdown procedures to secure all affected campuses. Officers were dispatched to the schools immediately, and entry to and from the buildings was suspended as a precautionary measure while thorough assessments were conducted.
Throughout the lockdown, students remained safely inside their classrooms under the supervision of teachers and staff. Parents and guardians were notified via official school communication channels and reassured that all students and employees were safe. Access to campuses was restricted not only to protect those inside but also to prevent interference with the ongoing law enforcement response.
“The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority,” the district said in a formal statement. “We are thankful for the immediate and professional response from the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office and are committed to supporting a full investigation into this incident.”
While the specific nature of the threat has not yet been disclosed, officials confirmed that the situation is being taken extremely seriously. Law enforcement personnel conducted comprehensive searches of all three schools, looking for any evidence of a potential threat. No injuries have been reported, and no suspects are currently in custody. Authorities continue to investigate whether the threats were credible or part of a larger coordinated hoax.
During the lockdown, district leaders urged families to avoid coming to the schools, both for their own safety and to allow first responders to operate without obstruction. Parents expressed a mix of concern and appreciation for the schools’ decisive action. One parent remarked, “It’s scary to get that call, but I’m grateful they acted fast and kept our kids safe.”
In the coming days, school counselors and mental health professionals will be available to provide support to students and staff who may have been emotionally affected by the incident. Recognizing the psychological impact of such events, the district emphasized the importance of recovery and ongoing vigilance.
Today’s events serve as a stark reminder of the real and growing challenges schools face in maintaining security. Olentangy Schools have long collaborated with local law enforcement to review and refine safety protocols, including lockdown drills and threat response training. This incident is expected to prompt further reflection and potential enhancements to those procedures.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution and remains united in its commitment to student safety. Further updates will be provided by the DCSO and district officials as more information becomes available.