HALIFAX, Nova Scotia — October 9, 2026 — Halifax West High School was placed under lockdown on Thursday, October 8, after police received a report involving a weapons threat directed at the school. The incident prompted an emergency response, with officers searching the building and authorities taking precautionary measures to protect students, staff, and the wider school community.
According to reports from local media, Halifax Regional Police were notified shortly before 12:30 p.m. after a man reportedly called the school and claimed he was on the property with a weapon. The threat prompted school officials to initiate lockdown procedures while police responded to investigate.
What Happened at Halifax West High School?
Halifax West High School is located at 283 Thomas Raddall Drive in Halifax, Nova Scotia. When the threat was reported, students and staff were directed to follow safety instructions.
Some students and staff were outside the building because the incident occurred around lunchtime. They were directed to a designated safe gathering location, while people who remained inside the school followed lockdown procedures.
School officials urged families not to travel to the property while police were managing access to the surrounding area. Authorities asked the public to avoid the immediate vicinity as officers carried out their investigation.
The police response caused concern among students, parents, school employees, and residents who observed emergency vehicles near the school.
Police Search School and Lift Lockdown
Officers searched the school to determine whether a weapon or other evidence supported the reported threat. According to Halifax Regional Police, the search did not uncover evidence to substantiate the threat.
The lockdown was lifted at approximately 3:45 p.m. Thursday, allowing the situation to move toward normal operations. Police stated that they did not believe there was an ongoing threat to the school, although officers planned to maintain a presence in the area to reassure students, staff, and families.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed the identity of the caller or announced an arrest in the initial reports. The investigation remains ongoing as police work to establish the circumstances behind the phone call.
Importantly, the reported threat should not be interpreted as confirmation that an armed person was found inside the school. Police said their search found no evidence supporting the claim.
Community Awaits Further Information
A school lockdown can be frightening for students and families, particularly when information is limited during an active police response. School officials and law enforcement worked to manage the situation and provide reassurance while the search continued.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to follow official communications from Halifax Regional Centre for Education and Halifax Regional Police for any further updates.
Latest update: Halifax West High School's lockdown was lifted on October 8 after police completed their search. No evidence was found to support the reported weapons threat, and police said they did not believe there was a continuing danger to the school.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details may be released as authorities continue their inquiries.
Sources: Global News, CityNews Halifax, and Halifax Regional Centre for Education.
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