Palatka, FL – Several schools in Putnam County were placed on a modified lockdown Thursday as deputies searched for a man reportedly armed with a knife.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, Palatka Jr.-Sr. High School, Mellon Learning Center, Children’s Reading Center Charter School, and St. Johns River State College were all placed on modified lockdown at the request of the Palatka Police Department. The move was described as precautionary while officers worked in the surrounding area.
Deputies advised residents to avoid St. Johns Avenue, Pine Needle Circle, State Road 19, and State Road 100 while the search continues. The sheriff’s office emphasized that the incident did not take place on any campus and there is no immediate threat to students or staff.
Additional deputies have been stationed at the affected schools until the area is cleared. Officials said the lockdown was implemented “out of an abundance of caution” while law enforcement actively investigates the situation.
Parents and community members are encouraged to stay alert for updates and follow official channels for further information. Authorities did not immediately release a description of the man they are searching for or indicate whether any arrests had been made as of Thursday afternoon.
This developing story will be updated as new details become available.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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