Boca Ciega High School Lockdown Ends After Masked Intruder Report

A lockdown at Boca Ciega High School ended Monday afternoon after police searched for three masked people reported to be carrying knives. The school at 924 58th St. S. in Gulfport went into lockdown at 10:17 a.m. following a call to the Gulfport Police Department. Officers from the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, Pinellas County Schools Police, and the Indian Shores Police Department joined Gulfport officers on campus. Gulfport Fire Rescue also responded to the scene.

The incident began when a report reached police regarding the masked individuals. The group was described as wearing ski masks and carrying knives. Law enforcement teams conducted a thorough search of the campus grounds and buildings. They did not find the three reported individuals, and no injuries were recorded during the search. Police said they found no other threats on the property.

The school administration lifted the lockdown at 12:22 p.m. and notified parents of the update. A review of surveillance footage from the campus showed at least one person leaving the area who matched the description of the reported group. Detectives are currently investigating to identify that individual. The school remains open for regular operations following the incident.

The search involved multiple agencies coordinating their efforts. Officers checked classrooms and common areas while maintaining a perimeter around the building. The initial report specified three people, but only one was confirmed on video. Police stated the investigation is active as they work to identify the person seen on camera. No further details were released regarding the suspect's age or direction of travel.