Nathan Hale High School evacuation, student taken into custody

Nathan Hale HS evacuation, student in custody

Nathan Hale High School students and staff were evacuated on Wednesday morning due to an "alleged threat," the school district said.

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - Nathan Hale High School students and staff were evacuated on Wednesday morning due to an "alleged threat," the school district said.

West Allis police responded to sweep the building and conduct an investigation after a student wearing a "suspicious article of clothing" made a potential threat. Police said it was believed the student had "some type of explosive."

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Officials determined the student was wearing a weighted athletic training vest that did not pose a threat to the school environment. Police took the student into custody, and nothing of concern was found inside the school.

The school was evacuated just before 10 a.m., and students and staff safely returned to the building around 11:30 a.m. Parents and guardians were given the option to pick up their students if desired.

Nathan Hale High School, West Allis

Medical personnel also responded to offer assistance to any students or staff on-site in need of attention. The school district said counseling services continue to be readily available to provide support to anyone in need.

West Allis-West Milwaukee School District statement:

The safety of students is of the utmost importance to West Allis-West Milwaukee School District. The district and police department have a strong working relationship and prepare in advance for these types of situations. We thank the students, staff and families for their cooperation in making sure everyone stayed safe during this unfortunate incident.