Lockdown at Columbus Nationwide Children’s Hospital lifted after reports of an ‘armed man’

Update: Employees have just received a text indicating the “All Clear.” There is currently no perceived danger at this time.

Nationwide Children’s Hospital went into lockdown on Tuesday afternoon following reports of an individual armed with an assault rifle.

A substantial police presence was observed outside the hospital, without lights or sirens. The lockdown was lifted around 3:40 p.m., and people were seen leaving the hospital at that time.

The hospital issued a statement indicating that they had been in lockdown for approximately 40 minutes.

“Our team followed all appropriate protocols. Columbus Police Department responded immediately and reported our situation as all clear with no threat present. We have returned to normal operations,” the statement read.

Original Report:

A witness, who is an employee at Nationwide Children’s, has reported the presence of a 65-year-old man in the basement with an AR15. The witness is uncertain whether there is an active shooter or shots fired, as they can only hear the situation from their location where they are currently in lockdown.

Police officers are currently at the scene conducting an investigation.

The hospital allegedly initiated a “code silver,” prompting a lockdown shortly after 3 p.m. The Columbus Division of Police conducted a thorough search in the area but found nothing.

The origin of the reports remains unclear.

This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.