Water Pistol Sparks School Lockdown in UK Town

A water pistol caused the lockdown of Cedar Mount Academy in Gorton, England, after an alarm was triggered on Thursday morning. Two police cars were stationed outside the school, which was closed as a precaution, and no injuries were reported.

According to the Metro newspaper, a student discharged water from the toy, setting off the alarm. Pupils were instructed to remain in their classrooms and hide under their desks.

A police officer outside the building informed parents that a "water pistol" had been used on a child. The officer added that the incident was "just two kids messing about with a water pellet gun."

The force had responded to a report of a child "carrying a firearm." However, a school spokesperson stated that online reports about a firearm being brought onto the premises were inaccurate. The spokesperson added that the report to the police came from an external source unconnected to the school, and that emergency services attended as a precautionary measure.