(10-19-25) Below was released by the New Knoxville Police Department on a situation this past Friday in the local school district.

RELATED: O-G Schools Have Partial Lockdown On Friday

Information regarding the recent situation involving the schools.

Yesterday the decision was made between law enforcement and school officials to go on a soft lock down, after receiving information about a potential threat to the school.

It was learned that a 62 year old male had come into the area from Indiana. This male, had left disturbing messages on food containers making reference to “New Knoxville School” and “topped off mags”.

Unfortunately I have heard rumors about people saying that they can’t believe the school locked down, because of a “homeless man”. The school did not lock down, because of just a “homeless man”. That decision was not made lightly, but was made in the best interest for the over all safety of the children, until law enforcement could locate this male and determine if he was an actual threat or suffering from a mental episode. That male was eventually located Friday evening in a nearby city. Law Enforcement did speak with this male and determined that he is not a threat, and does suffer from some mental health problems.

I would like to thank the New Knoxville School and Auglaize County Sheriffs Office for all their help and assistance in this matter. Even when being judged by numerous people via social media, we will continue to work together to ensure the safety of our children and communities.

Thank You,

Police Chief Chris McKinney