Former student in custody, campus safe

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Former student in custody, campus safe

A former student who was being actively pursued by police is now in custody, Hillsdale College confirmed in a press release. 

“Law enforcement has informed Hillsdale College that the potential threat has ended,” the statement said. “The lockdown has been lifted. Police were actively searching for a former student who may be a threat to campus, according to an official college statement.”

This student left campus last semester, and was being pursued by law enforcement, sources said. 

Hillsdale College security advised students to stay indoors and a lockdown was issued for all of campus in the wake of a potentially armed assailant.

“The college has received information that a person, who left a residence from the surrounding area, may be armed,” Director of Security William Whorley said in an email. “Please stay indoors – You will be advised when it is all clear.”

Hillsdale City Police Chief Scott Hephner, as well as Hillsdale College Security were walking through the union and searching through buildings. They said they couldn’t disclose information on the situation.

“There is a threat that is active,” Hephner said earlier in the search. “While it is unlikely here, these lockdown precautions are necessary.”

According to Hillsdale’s radio station 92.1 WCSR, the suspect was driving a tan or gold compact pickup truck.

An automated phone call was also issued to Hillsdale students and parents.

“Hillsdale College is on lockdown, please stay indoors until further notice,” the phone call said. “No immediate threat. Please stay indoors.” 

Classes resumed at 2:15 p.m. and students were let back outside after two hours of being on lockdown. 

This is a breaking story, please check back for updates.