Police negotiating with man in abandoned building near school
Eleanor Campbell
A secondary school in Footscray has been placed on lockdown after an active police incident was reported.
Police are locked in negotiations with a 44-year-old man at an abandoned property near Footscray High School’s Barkly Street campus.
A Victoria Police spokesman said there was no ongoing threat to the public and the situation was ongoing.
“Further information will be provided when appropriate,” the statement said.
In an email sent Friday afternoon by school principal Vicki Tentzoglidis, parents were informed that the school was on lockdown.
“This afternoon we were notified by Victoria Police of an incident at a home near the school’s Barkly campus.” Age, in question.
“Police have recommended that the school be placed on lockdown as a precaution. All students and staff are safe.
“Victoria Police advise that the incident is ongoing for now and as a result students will not be able to leave at the end of the school day at this stage.”
Police were seen arriving at the scene shortly before 2pm, an eyewitness told 774 ABC Melbourne.
Barkly Street remains closed in both directions between French Street and Victoria Street.
More to come.
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