Santa Monica High School Locked Down on Monday Afternoon, Due to Armed Man at Gas Station Near Campus

Santa Monica High School initiated a precautionary lockdown on Monday afternoon Sept 29th, following reports of an armed individual at a gas station located in close proximity to the campus, according to information from the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) website. Santa Monica Police posted that they have the suspect and his BB gun, in custody.

The incident unfolded around 1:30 p.m., prompting district officials to place the school under lockdown as a safety measure. Students and staff were instructed to shelter in place while local law enforcement responded to the scene at the nearby gas station on Pico Boulevard, just blocks from the high school's main entrance.

SMMUSD Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati emphasized the district's commitment to student safety in a statement posted on the district's official website. "The safety of our students and staff is our top priority," Drati said. "We acted swiftly in coordination with the Santa Monica Police Department to ensure a secure environment during this event."According to details shared on the SMMUSD news page, the lockdown was lifted approximately 45 minutes later after authorities determined there was no active threat to the school. The armed man, described as a transient in possession of a replica firearm, was detained without incident.

No injuries were reported, and the investigation is ongoing.School officials confirmed that all after-school activities resumed as scheduled once the all-clear was given. Parents were notified via the district's automated alert system, and counselors were made available to support any students affected by the brief disruption.

This event underscores the ongoing vigilance required in school safety protocols, particularly in urban areas like Santa Monica where proximity to public spaces can introduce unforeseen risks.

The SMMUSD website highlights the district's comprehensive emergency response plan, which includes regular drills and collaboration with local first responders.For more information, visit the SMMUSD website at smmusd.org.