Schools in Jefferson County Lift Lockdowns After Pellet Gun Report Near Buff Elementary

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ore. — Schools in Jefferson County were temporarily placed in secure lockdown mode Friday morning, Nov. 6, after authorities received a report of an individual carrying a gun while walking toward Buff Elementary School.

According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Frontier Dispatch received the report at approximately 7:31 a.m., during morning student drop-off. Schools followed their standard “I Love U Guys” safety protocol and entered secure lockdown mode as a precaution.

The incident prompted a multi-agency response involving the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Madras Police Department and Oregon State Police.

Using the description provided by the caller, law enforcement officers located the individual and determined the weapon was a pellet gun. Investigators also determined the individual had no intention of entering any school or causing harm.

All school lockdowns were subsequently lifted, and schools returned to their normal daily schedules.

The Sheriff’s Office thanked students, families and community members for remaining calm and avoiding the area while law enforcement responded. Officials also praised school staff, educators and responding agencies for their quick and orderly response.

The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the safety of students, school employees and the community remains its highest priority.