Valley High School lockdown lifted, no threats found

A lockdown of Valley High School in New Kensington was lifted shortly before noon Tuesday after a live firearm round found in a bathroom prompted a police search of the building.

Superintendent Chris Sefcheck said the search by police and administrators found no other ammunition nor weapons in the building. Classes were resuming as scheduled.

“With the all-clear given, I am happy to announce that operations at the school have returned to normal. Classes will resume, and all students and staff can safely continue their scheduled activities.

“I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in ensuring the safety and security of our school community. Your cooperation and support during this challenging time was invaluable,” Sefcheck said via email to TribLive.

The single round was found during the start of first period at the school.

New Kensington police Chief Robert Deringer said the 9 mm round was found in a bathroom near the school’s auditorium.

New Kensington police used the department’s dogs to search the school, a notice from the district said. New Kensington police also requested assistance from City of Pittsburgh Police dogs for the search.

“Numerous specialized K-9s were brought in and thoroughly searched the school,” Deringer said in an email to TribLive. “Nothing else was found.”