Cahaba Heights Elementary lifts lockdown

The “soft” lockdown at Cahaba Heights Elementary was lifted around 1:15 p.m., Vestavia Hills City Schools spokesperson Whit McGhee said.

The elementary school went into lockdown around lunchtime on the recommendation of the Vestavia Hills Police, who are searching for suspects in a burglary and home invasion in the 4400 block of Dolly Ridge Road. In a soft lockdown, classes continue as normal but there is an “enhanced police presence” and extra security measures at the school’s entry points, McGhee said.

Police department spokesperson Lt. Brian Gilham said there was never a serious worry that the school would be in danger and the lockdown was a precautionary measure. A VHPD officer will remain at the elementary school through student dismissal, as the police have not yet caught the suspects.

McGhee said students will be staying inside for the remainder of the school day despite the lockdown being lifted. Afternoon activities and regular dismissal will not be affected.

“They’ve established that any concern for the school has passed,” McGhee said.