Deadly shooting at the West Richland school: "Woman killed," gunman escapes, and authorities cordon off the area.

Tommy James | 23 April, 2024.

Shooting at West Richland Elementary School prompts critical lockdown, suspect still on the loose.

Police responded to a shooting near a West Richland Elementary School on Monday.

There have been reports of a horrifying occurrence at West Richland Elementary School today. According to reports, there was a tragic gunshot that claimed the life of one woman. Since the culprit is still at large, the school campus is under a serious lockdown. The woman's identity has not yet been released, however Claire Venema of the Richland Police Department reports that the shooting took place near West Richland's William Wiley Elementary School.

The incident happened in West Richland, Washington, on April 22. The incident, according to the neighbours, happened at approximately 3 PM, when pupils were supposed to return from school. The suspect's home is currently under lockdown by West Richland police, according to a Richland school district alert. The district's priority is bringing students back to their families.

There are still questions about certain aspects of the incident at West Richland Elementary School. A severe lockdown has been put in place, requiring staff and pupils to seek cover within the building, even though authorities haven't confirmed the identity of the 'dead' woman—whether she was a parent picking up a child or a passerby shot by chance. The parents received several updates regarding the safety of their children from the school districts.

"There was a shooting at West Richland's William Wiley Elementary School during departure today. The criminal is currently on the loose. A major lockdown was imposed on schools. We'll provide you updates." Parents received a notice, according to NBC News.

According to witnesses, the suspect fled the scene. Police are looking for the suspect at a home along South Highlands Boulevard close to the school.

"Every event and activity scheduled for West Richland schools has been cancelled. The city of Richland has forced practices and events at its schools to take place indoors. There will be more updates soon." The notice further said.