Full Breakdown
Bognor Regis School Lockdown Due to Misidentified Gunman
10/23/2025, 4:48:02 AM
Incident Overview
On October 22, 2023, schools in Bognor Regis, West Sussex, were placed under lockdown following reports of a man seen with a suspected firearm. The incident began around 11:10 AM when Sussex Police received a call regarding a potential threat on Firth Road, prompting immediate lockdown procedures at nearby educational institutions, including the Regis School, which has approximately 1,600 students.
Response and Lockdown Duration
The lockdown lasted from approximately 11:30 AM until around 1:00 PM. Armed police units were deployed to the area, and searches were conducted to locate the alleged gunman. During this time, students were reportedly distressed, with some attempting to escape by scaling fences. Parents rushed to the school to collect their children, who were described as "hysterical and sobbing."
Clarification of Events
Later in the day, Sussex Police clarified that the reports of a gunman were based on a misidentification. The individual in question was a 14-year-old boy dressed in fancy dress, carrying a toy gun. Chief Inspector Dave Groombridge stated, "We have identified the person who was subject to these reports... and can confirm he had a toy gun with him at the time; was not in possession of any offensive weapons." This revelation aimed to reassure the community that there was no ongoing threat.
Official Statements
A spokesperson from the Regis School emphasized that the lockdown was a precautionary measure based on police advice and that the incident was not related to the school itself. The spokesperson noted, "The wellbeing of our students is our highest priority, and we will always follow the advice of the emergency services when requested." Sussex Police reiterated their commitment to public safety, acknowledging the community's concerns while confirming that no arrests had been made.
Criticism and Community Reaction
The lockdown and subsequent confusion prompted criticism from parents and community members. One mother expressed her frustration, stating, "It has just been so poorly managed. There are children in the leisure centre next door who were stuck in there for two or three hours." Many parents felt the situation was mishandled, leading to unnecessary panic among students.
Conclusion and Ongoing Presence
As of the afternoon of October 22, all schools involved had resumed normal operations, but a visible police presence remained in the area to ensure community safety. Sussex Police encouraged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to maintaining public safety in Bognor Regis.
