UPDATE:
Shots Fired Call Being Investigated By Police
On Wednesday March 9, 2022 Lake Wales Police Officers responded to the area of 605 S 3rd Street regarding reports of shots being fired in the area. This occurred around 3:15 PM in close proximity to McLaughlin Middle School, which was placed on lockdown for a short period of time while Officers investigated.
Police believe that the shooting was between two or more people but it appears no one was struck during the gunfire. Also no one has come forward as a victim in the case at this time. Detectives continue to follow leads to identify those responsible for the shooting.
If you have any information regarding this incident please contact the Lake Wales Police Department at 863-678-4223 or anonymously at Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477).
Original Release from Lake Wales Police Department
Lake Wales, Florida – At approximately 3:15pm on Wednesday, March 9, area residents near 3rd St in Lake Wales heard what they thought might be Gun fire. Police quickly descended on the area and McLaughlin Middle School was place on lockdown/or high security. That lockdown/high security has been lifted.
According to Deputy Chief David Black, with Lake Wales Police Department, advised “We locked down McLaughlin out of an abundance of caution until we could confirm the scene was safe.”
This is an ongoing situation and we will update as information becomes available!
