Law enforcement and federal agencies are currently on the scene at Westwood Hills Elementary School in Waynesboro, Virginia, following reports of a shooting incident. The school, located in the Shenandoah Valley approximately 20 miles west of Charlottesville, is the site of an active emergency response managed by the Waynesboro Police Department.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Washington Field Division confirmed via social media that they are assisting with the response to the reported shooting. While specific details regarding the nature of the incident remain limited, the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office has stated that the situation is contained and secured. Officials emphasized that children are safe and are in the process of being evacuated from the building.
Ryan Barber, Assistant Superintendent of Waynesboro Public Schools, confirmed the emergency status in an official update on the district’s website. He noted that a reunification process for students and their families has been established at the Westminster Presbyterian Church on Mt. Vernon Street. Authorities have requested that parents and community members refrain from traveling to the school site to ensure that emergency vehicles and buses maintain clear access to the area.
Medical support is also being coordinated in response to the event. Augusta Health confirmed that they are providing patient care related to the shooting. Hospital spokesperson Kristen Printy stated that while privacy policies prevent the disclosure of specific details, the facility is committed to supporting those impacted by the incident. Local authorities continue to manage the scene, and further information is expected as the situation develops. The report also notes that the agency did not release additional details about the incident. The report also notes that our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the shooting in our community.