SALISBURY – A report of possible shots fired came into Salisbury police around 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, less than three blocks from the Catawba College campus.

Out of an abundance of caution, the middle school and several other area schools were immediately placed on lockdown while officers conducted a thorough investigation, according to a statement from the City of Salisbury.

Catawba College’s stay-at-home notice to students stated “Notification to Shelter in Place. There’s an emergency near campus. Stay where you are and shelter there until further notice.

The college issued an “everything is clear” message in around thirty minutes, according to its social networks.

A press release issued by the city at 3:30 p.m. said that “to date, no injuries or property damage related to a shooting have been identified,” and when contacted, police said the report simply stated that what appeared to be gunshots fire had been heard. Campus operations for all schools have returned to normal.

Detectives continue to investigate this incident and urge anyone with information regarding this event to contact the Salisbury Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Tip Line at 704-638-5333. All information provided will be kept strictly confidential.

The safety and security of our community remains the top priority of the City of Salisbury and the Salisbury Police Department.