Westside High School Lockdown After Nearby Shooting Incident

News Summary

Westside High School in Jacksonville, Florida, was placed on lockdown Thursday morning following a shooting across the street at an apartment complex. A man was found dead at the scene, prompting a swift police response. Despite fears, officials confirmed the shooting was unrelated to school activities, and students were kept safe during the lockdown. The investigation has revealed a 16-year-old student as a suspect, raising concerns about gun violence among students and the community.

Westside High School on High Alert Following Nearby Shooting Incident

In a stunning turn of events in Jacksonville, Florida, students and staff at Westside High School found themselves on lockdown this past Thursday morning after a tragic shooting took place right across the street at an apartment complex. The incident unfolded around 7:45 a.m. when the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office received reports of gunfire in the area.

What Happened?

When officers arrived at the scene, they were devastated to discover that a man, estimated to be between 30-35 years old, had been shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene. Witnesses who were nearby reported hearing the sound of gunshots and noticed several individuals, described as multiple Black males, fleeing the location quickly after the shots rang out.

As law enforcement worked swiftly to secure the area, several individuals were temporarily detained for questioning. They received vital support from the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) police to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Lockdown Procedure and Student Safety

Due to the police activity in the vicinity, Westside High School was placed on lockdown “out of an abundance of caution,” according to officials. It’s crucial to note, however, that this incident was confirmed to have no direct relation to school activities. During the lockdown, both students and staff remained safe, providing a sense of relief to parents concerned for their children’s well-being.

Students Share Their Experiences

Family Connections to the Incident

A Student Suspect

Alex Reddice was identified as the suspect in the incident. He is currently facing charges of second-degree murder and armed robbery. Reports indicate that he was present in the victim’s apartment on the morning of the shooting, where they had allegedly been playing video games together.

Community Concerns

As law enforcement continues to investigate, they are calling on community members to share any information or surveillance footage that may be related to the shooting. The importance of community involvement shines brightly as everyone comes together to ensure a safer environment for our children.

In the wake of this tragic event, Westside High School and the Jacksonville community remain united in their commitment to safety and support for one another.

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Additional Resources

• First Coast News: Westside High School Lockdown After Shooting
• Action News Jax: Police Respond to Shooting Near Westside High School
• News4Jax: Man Dies After Shooting at Apartment Complex
• Wikipedia: School Lockdown
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence