Landrum Middle School was placed on lockdown Monday morning, February 24, 2025, after receiving a threatening phone call, which authorities now believe to be a “swatting” incident.
School staff received a call from an unknown male who claimed to be nearby, armed, and intending to “kill children.” Immediate lockdown procedures were initiated, alerting the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office (SJSO) Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC) and SJSO Communications.
RTIC analysts took control of school cameras, a large law enforcement presence was deployed to the area, and school buses were diverted. The school’s youth resource deputy, who was already on-site, took immediate action. Ocean Palms Elementary was placed on a soft lockdown due to its proximity.
A search of the schools and surrounding areas was conducted.
Investigation revealed the call originated from an international number, and the circumstances are consistent with a swatting call, a hoax intended to trigger a large law enforcement response.
The SJSO and the St. Johns County School District emphasize that all threats are taken seriously and responded to with maximum resources until student and staff safety is confirmed.
The SJSO Intelligence Unit is working with federal law enforcement to trace the call’s origin. Authorities acknowledge the emotional distress caused by such incidents and are committed to investigating them thoroughly.
A continued law enforcement presence will be maintained at area schools to provide reassurance to the community.
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