New River Community College Lockdown in Pulaski County, Virginia – No Threat Found
PULASKI COUNTY, VIRGINIA — New River Community College (NRCC) in Dublin, Virginia, experienced a temporary lockdown on the morning of Friday, February 20, 2026, following a phone call reporting a potential threat on campus. Authorities have confirmed that the campus is now safe, and no weapon or dangerous individual was found. The college remains closed for the day as a precaution, and law enforcement continues to investigate the source of the call.
NRCC officials reported that the college received a phone call indicating the presence of a possible shooter in Godbey Hall, one of the main buildings on campus. Campus administrators acted immediately, notifying local law enforcement and activating the college’s emergency protocols. Within minutes, officers arrived on site, and NRCC initiated a full lockdown to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. The lockdown prevented anyone from entering or leaving the campus while authorities investigated the situation thoroughly.
During the lockdown, campus officials coordinated closely with the Pulaski County Emergency Management and local law enforcement agencies. Students, faculty, and staff were instructed to remain in secure locations, follow safety guidelines, and await further instructions. The swift communication and cooperation among the college community and first responders helped prevent panic and ensured that everyone remained safe throughout the incident.
After a careful search of Godbey Hall and surrounding areas, authorities determined that there was no weapon or individual posing a threat on campus. The lockdown was officially lifted at 10:14 a.m., and while no immediate danger was present, NRCC decided to remain closed for the day as a precautionary measure. Pulaski County Schools were also placed on lockdown briefly while the situation was being assessed, though officials later confirmed that students and staff in nearby schools were not in any danger.
NRCC thanked local first responders, law enforcement officers, and the college community for their calm and cooperative response during the lockdown. The coordinated efforts ensured that the campus remained secure and that potential risks were addressed efficiently. Authorities are continuing to investigate the phone call that prompted the lockdown to determine its origin and prevent similar incidents in the future.
No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported during the lockdown. The college’s administration emphasized the importance of maintaining safety and vigilance, noting that false alarms, while disruptive, provide an opportunity to review and strengthen emergency preparedness procedures. NRCC’s emergency response plan was activated successfully, demonstrating the effectiveness of planning, communication, and cooperation in safeguarding the campus community.
This incident underscores the importance of campus safety and preparedness. College administrators and law enforcement remind students, staff, and community members to report any suspicious activity promptly. Even minor details can be critical in preventing potential threats and ensuring that timely responses are possible. NRCC remains committed to protecting its students, faculty, and staff while providing a safe learning environment.
While the lockdown caused understandable concern among students, parents, and the community, authorities confirmed that the campus and surrounding areas are safe. Law enforcement continues to investigate the phone call to determine whether it was intentional or accidental and to ensure accountability. Meanwhile, students and staff are encouraged to remain alert and follow updates from the college and local officials regarding campus operations.
In summary, the lockdown at New River Community College was a precautionary response to a reported threat. Authorities quickly assessed and secured the campus, found no weapon or danger, and lifted the lockdown at 10:14 a.m. The college remains closed for the day as a precaution, and law enforcement continues to investigate the source of the call. First responders and college personnel are commended for their swift, calm, and effective handling of the situation, which ensured the safety of the NRCC community.
This event highlights the critical importance of preparation, communication, and community cooperation in maintaining campus safety and demonstrates how proactive measures can prevent potential harm and protect lives.
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