No evidence of shooting or victims after scary situation at Highline College



DES MOINES, Wash. -- A terrifying situation unfolded Friday morning at a college south of Seattle after reports of gunfire on campus.

The Des Moines, Wash. college went into lockdown just before 9 a.m. Students took to Twitter saying they heard what sounded like 6-8 gunshots on campus.



About an hour later, Public Information Officer Capt. Kyle Ohashi said police had found no evidence of a shooting or any victims at Highline College. Ohashi emphasized that law enforcement will treat every shooting report seriously.

No victims or suspects were found, and police believe the sounds may have come from fireworks. Two patients were treated and released for asthma complications, officials said.

The campus will remain closed for the rest of Friday.





The college said police evacuated buildings and assessed the situation.

Highline College was keeping students and staff updated on their Facebook page:

"Remain in lockdown - This is not a drill

Police are responding and evacuating buildings. Remain in lockdown position. We will update you as further details become available. This is an unfolding situation."


Multiple police agencies including the Washington State Patrol responded to the college. Video from the scene showed a massive police response.

Officials said families in need of information were asked to go to the NW corner of the Lowe's parking lot.



Kent police said a large police presence was at the school and along Pacific Highway South between 240th and Kent-Des Moines Road: "Please avoid the area if possible."

Southbound I-5 briefly closed near SR 516, but quickly reopened. More closures are possible.

The school is located about 15 miles south of Seattle. It has about 17,000 students.