Memphis, Tennessee, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Middle schools in Memphis were placed under lockdown after receiving threats via phone and social media. White Station Middle School and Munford Middle School reacted swiftly, with local law enforcement conducting thorough checks. Both schools reported no injuries and lifted lockdowns after confirming safety. The situation raised concerns among parents regarding safety protocols and communication during emergencies. Ongoing investigations involve local authorities, the FBI, and Homeland Security as schools remain vigilant.
Memphis Schools Face Lockdown Due to Threats; Investigations Ongoing
Memphis, Tennessee โ Several middle schools in the Memphis area experienced lockdowns Wednesday morning due to threats made via phone and social media. Notably, White Station Middle School and Munford Middle School were placed under lockdown as a precautionary measure while security evaluations were conducted.
White Station Middle School initiated a brief lockdown after receiving a phone threat. Local authorities, along with officials from Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS), responded immediately to the situation. Law enforcement conducted a thorough search of the premises and confirmed that there was no real threat, leading to the lifting of the lockdown shortly afterward. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries among students or staff, and classes resumed as normal.
MSCS communicated the situation to parents through robocalls, emails, and text messages, keeping them informed of the lockdown and subsequent resolution. MSCS officials emphasized the seriousness of making threats of violence, stating that such actions are considered severe criminal offenses under both Tennessee and federal law.
Simultaneously, Munford Middle School faced similar challenges due to a threat traced back to a Snapchat post. This threat was geo-located to the parking lot of Munford High School. A seventh grader from Munford reported the post, which originated from a student at Crestview Middle School in Covington. The FBI has been engaged to trace the original poster of the threat, with Homeland Security also assisting in the investigation.
While the Munford police assured the public that there was no active threat to local schools, the lockdown was effectively lifted around 9:30 a.m. Meanwhile, other schools in the area were placed on a “soft lockdown” due to ongoing online threats. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office verified reports of these concerns, prompting additional security measures.
In a coordinated response, the Germantown Police Department and MSCS worked collaboratively to assess the credibility of the threats, ensuring heightened security, including a greater presence of officers at Germantown High School.
Despite the swift actions taken by security personnel and school officials, some parents expressed concerns about the communication process during the lockdowns, noting that they relied on text updates from their children to stay informed about the situation.
As of noon Wednesday, no injuries were reported in conjunction with the lockdowns, which sparked a flurry of investigations. Parents were cautioned against coming to schools during the investigations to maintain the safety of students and faculty.
Background Context
The incidents at White Station Middle School and Munford Middle School highlight an ongoing concern regarding school safety and the appropriate response to threats. Although lockdowns are a standard safety protocol in response to potential threats, these situations can cause significant anxiety for students, parents, and staff alike. Communication from school authorities plays a crucial role in handling such emergencies effectively.
Conclusion
As investigations continue, local schools maintain vigilance to ensure that the safety of students and staff remains their top priority.
FAQ Section
What prompted the lockdowns at Memphis middle schools?
The lockdowns were prompted by threats made to White Station Middle School via phone and to Munford Middle School through a traced Snapchat post.
Were there any injuries reported during the lockdowns?
No injuries were reported among students or staff during the lockdowns.
How did the schools communicate with parents during the incidents?
Schools communicated with parents through robocalls, emails, and text messages to keep them updated on the situation.
What measures are being taken to handle these threats?
Local authorities, including the FBI and Homeland Security, are conducting investigations into the threats, while school officials are ensuring additional security measures are in place.
Chart: Key Features of the Lockdown Incidents
| School Involved | Type of Threat | Response Action | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Station Middle School | Phone Threat | Brief Lockdown | Lockdown Lifted, No Threat Found |
| Munford Middle School | Social Media Threat (Snapchat) | Lockdown | No Active Threat, Lockdown Lifted |
| Multiple MSCS Schools | Online Threats | Soft Lockdown | Investigations Ongoing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Memphis High Schools Ranked Among Tennessee’s Best
Memphis Schools Restructure Leadership Amid Academic Challenges
White Station Middle School Briefly Locked Down Due to Threat
Memphis Police Detain 13-Year-Old Over School Shooting Threat
Memphis Grapples with Homicide Investigation and Rising Crime Rates
University of Memphis Launches New Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Manhunt Underway After Fatal Shooting in Anaconda Bar
Mass Shooting in Anaconda Shocks Local Community
Memphis School Board Considers New Cellphone Policy
Memphis Schools Tackle Teacher Vacancies Ahead of School Year
Additional Resources
- Local Memphis
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Commercial Appeal
- Wikipedia: School Lockdown
- Google Search: Memphis school lockdowns
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
