Horace (trfnews.i234.me) — Three schools in Horace went into lockdown Monday morning after a shooting near Heritage Middle School.
Authorities said a man was shot in the hand in the school parking lot. The injury was not life-threatening.
The call came in at 9:46 a.m. Monday, April 13. Law enforcement then asked schools to begin lockdown procedures.
West Fargo Public Schools said Heritage Middle School, Horace Elementary, and Horace High School were all placed on lockdown.
Students Safe During Lockdown
Officials said no students or staff members were hurt. They also said children inside the buildings remained safe during the incident.
The lockdown lasted for several hours. It was lifted shortly after noon.
School officials told parents that normal operations resumed once law enforcement cleared the scene. They also said after-school activities were expected to continue.
What Investigators Said
Authorities said the man who was shot knew the suspect. The two men had been working together at a construction site.
Investigators are still trying to learn why a gun was brought onto school grounds. Officials said that remains a major concern.
Law enforcement also said there does not appear to be an ongoing threat to the public. Even so, the shooting caused alarm because it happened on a school campus.
Arrest Made
Police arrested Garmonyou Dougar Wiles, 40, of Fargo. He was booked on suspicion of felony reckless endangerment, felony aggravated assault, and felony terrorizing.
Authorities said more charges could still be added as the case moves forward.
Parents of Heritage Middle School students were also told that access to parts of the campus could change while officers processed evidence in the parking lot.
West Fargo Police said school resource officers responded right away and were inside the schools after the shooting.
Officials also said comfort dogs would be available during the week to help students who may need support.
The case remains under investigation. More updates are expected as investigators finish their work.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.