GRAND RAPIDS (WWJ) - A liberal arts college in West Michigan was placed on a brief lockdown Wednesday morning after gunfire was reported at a nearby park, officials announced.
A lockdown order for the Aquinas College campus in Grand Rapids was sent around 8:30 a.m., prompting all individuals to shelter in place and follow lockdown procedures.
An Aquinas College spokesperson told WWJ's Beth Fisher the order was put in place due to shots fired at Wilcox Park off Youell Ave.
The spokesperson said the Grand Rapids police were investigating the incident and the school lifted the lockdown shortly before 9:15 a.m.
WWJ is working to contract local authorities to learn about the incident.
While students do not return to campus until Monday, Jan. 16, employees were reportedly told to lock themselves in their offices.
The school put out the following instructions to those on campus:
• STOP all business AND MOVE to an area where you are not visible from the door or windows. DO NOT talk.
• Close and lock all windows and doors.
• Close all window shades, blinds or curtains and turn off all lights.
• If there are visitors in the building, provide for their safety by asking them to stay-not leave.
• DO NOT leave your area and stay where you are until notified to move by emergency personnel or Campus Safety.
• Monitor internal and external communications.
If you have a disability that could impair your ability to perform any of the above, please:
• Call one or two of your friends or classmates to help.
• Call 3333 and tell them where you are and what is needed.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ LIVE for updates.