LINCOLNTON, N.C. - On July 29, 2024, Lincoln County emergency response teams conducted a successful joint active shooter drill at Pumpkin Center Primary/Intermediate School. This exercise was designed to enhance coordination and preparedness among local agencies, simulating a high-stress incident to improve community response.

Participants included local law enforcement, emergency medical services, school staff, and other key stakeholders. The drill focused on:

·         Coordination: Simulated a realistic scenario with seamless communication between police, fire, and medical units.

·         Realism: Included simulated gunfire, casualties, and evacuation procedures.

·         Community Involvement: School staff and students tested evacuation plans and emergency procedures.

·         Training: Post-exercise debriefs helped refine response strategies and improve preparedness.

Statements from Local Officials:

Sheriff Bill Beam praised the drill, "This is a great coordinated drill and response to a critical incident with all our first responders as listed below. We are thankful to work in a county that supports Law Enforcement and its first responders”. Chief Deputy Matthew Lykins acknowledged the importance of training for such incidents, “Everyone wants to believe that it can’t happen where I live, but unfortunately that’s where these incidents do happen. I’m thankful that I live and work for a county where resources are given and utilized to train for these situations. I want to say thank you to the Lincoln County Commissioners, the Lincoln County School Board, and to all the Lincoln County First Responders for their tireless work in keeping Lincoln County safe.”

Looking Ahead:

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office will continue collaborating with local partners to refine emergency plans and conduct further training. Insights from this drill will bolster community safety and resilience.

Participating Agencies:

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincolnton Police Department, NC Department of Adult Correction, Pumpkin Center Fire Department, Denver Fire Department, Lincolnton Fire Department, North Carolina Highway Patrol, Lincoln County EMS, Lincoln County Emergency Services, Lincoln County Public Affairs and Lincoln County Schools.