False report at Widefield middle school due to possible ‘alarm malfunction’

WIDEFIELD, Colo. (KRDO) -- According to officials, a false alarm at a Widefield middle Junior High triggering law enforcement response was sent out Friday. According to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, the report of the malfunctioning alarm came just after 8 a.m.

In a Tweet, the Widefield School District 3 said, "Please keep clear of Watson Junior High. Out of an abundance of caution, law enforcement is investigating the lockdown alarm. At this time, we believe it is a malfunction."

The sheriff's office responded and said the scene had been cleared. However, they're now working with the district to "ensure the safety of all students."

They reiterated that there was no shooter and are investigating the claims which were reported of an active shooter on the campus.

13 Investigates spoke with a mother of two children at Watson Junior High. She wished to remain anonymous but expressed how much the "alarm malfunction" and subsequent lockdown impacted her children.

"They gave me the biggest bear hug but without no release and the deep breaths that I felt release from their bodies, they knew that they were safe," the mom said. "They are petrified. What effect this may have on them and they are so young. At this age level, they are so vulnerable. This is going to do something to them. Something that we are going to have to work through with them. They held onto me."

13 Investigates asked Widefield School District 3 officials about unsubstantiated rumors that were spoken of regarding an active shooter at the school. They referred us to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, who then referred us back to the school district.

Both agencies say there is no current threat to Watson Junior High or any other school.