Wooden Prop Mistaken for Real Gun Triggers Lockdown at Three Adelaide Schools
Thousands of students across three Adelaide schools were forced into hiding today, crouching under desks and sheltering in cupboards, after alarming reports of an armed man on campus. However, the terrifying lockdown was sparked by a simple misunderstanding, with the "gun" turning out to be a wooden prop intended for a school play.
Midday Lockdown and Police Response
Just after midday, students at Gleeson College were ordered to take cover before being moved into a gymnasium for safety. Neighbouring Pedare Christian College and Golden Grove High School were also locked down as police swarmed the shared campus, responding swiftly to the potential threat.
"We didn’t really know what to think… we’ve only ever done practice drills, so it felt real," student Lachlan Smith recounted, highlighting the intense and frightening nature of the situation.
Drama Teacher and Wooden Prop Identified
Students reported that officers tackled the suspected gunman to the ground, only to discover he was a drama teacher carrying a handcrafted wooden prop. The prop had been made in the school’s woodworking room for a World War II‑themed production, leading to the confusion.
"That’s where the misunderstanding has come from," student Ryan Jackson explained, noting how the realistic appearance of the prop contributed to the alarm.
Police Assessment and Student Reactions
Police quickly determined that no offence had been committed, confirming the prop was harmless. Despite the false alarm, students praised the staff and authorities for their handling of the incident, emphasising the importance of taking such reports seriously.
"I think they handled it well, and the cops did their thing," student Blake Amos said, reflecting a sense of relief and approval for the precautionary measures taken.
The incident serves as a reminder of the heightened security protocols in schools and the potential for everyday items to be misinterpreted in tense situations. While the lockdown was ultimately unnecessary, it underscores the vigilance required to ensure student safety in educational environments.
