Texas City High School was placed on lockdown Friday afternoon after a phoned-in threat was reported to the Texas City Police Department, prompting a large law enforcement response.
The lockdown began at 2:33 p.m., with all students and staff secured inside classrooms and common areas while police swept the campus. During the lockdown, no one was permitted to enter or exit the school grounds. By 2:59 p.m., the lockdown was still in place as officers continued their investigation.
According to Texas City ISD Communications Director Melissa Tortorici, the incident unfolded just as students were gathered in the high school gymnasium for the first pep rally of the football season. Students and staff remained under close supervision in the gym while Texas City Police, Galveston County Sheriff’s deputies, and additional assisting agencies performed a methodical room-by-room search of the campus.
Authorities emphasized that the threat does not appear credible at this time, but the decision to lock down was made out of an abundance of caution. Police confirmed that all students and staff are safe and accounted for, with no injuries or direct danger reported.
“Ensuring the safety of our students is our top priority,” Tortorici said, thanking parents and the community for their patience while the investigation unfolded.
The lockdown has understandably left parents anxious, with many arriving near the campus seeking updates. School officials urged families to avoid rushing to the school during such situations to allow emergency personnel to secure the area safely.
The Texas City Police Department is expected to provide additional updates once the search is complete and the campus is declared all clear. At this stage, the phoned-in threat remains under investigation, and authorities have not released details on the caller or possible motives.
Community members with information related to the incident are encouraged to contact the Texas City Police Department at (409) 643-5720.