At approximately 1:57 p.m Williams Elementary School administration was contacted by the Mattoon Police Department stating they received a call to Sunrise Apartments, next to Williams Elementary School, in reference to a weapons complaint. Officers responded and immediately determined that the report was unfounded.
Out of abundance of caution, while the MPD investigated the allegation, Williams and Mattoon Middle School initiated their soft lockdown process. Students were locked in their classes and no one was allowed to enter or exit the buildings. At 2:11 p.m. the soft lockdown was lifted after MPD determined the call was unfounded.
Mattoon school officials are grateful for MPD’s quick response and communication.