News

Shelter-in-place partially lifted following armed mental health crisis in Harrisonburg

Photo: Contributed/Harrisonburg Police Department


HARRISONBURG VA (Rocktown Now) A shelter-in-place order issued earlier today has been lifted for most residents in Harrisonburg, except for those living in the 1200 block of Virginia Avenue, where law enforcement continues to respond to an active incident.

According to authorities, the situation began around 4:00 PM on Saturday, October 26, when police were called to a home in the 1200 block of Virginia Avenue for a mental health emergency involving an armed individual. Officials confirmed that at least two other people were inside the residence with the individual, prompting a heavy police presence and a citywide shelter-in-place advisory.

By 4:25 PM, Virginia Avenue was closed to all northbound and southbound traffic between Mt. Clinton Pike and Parkwood Drive. Residents were urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes.

At 5:15 PM, officials reported that efforts were underway to communicate with the individual inside the home to ensure the safety of everyone involved. The shelter-in-place remained in effect for the north end of the city.

As of 6:30 PM, the incident was still active, and Virginia Avenue remained closed. One hour later, at 7:30 PM, the shelter-in-place was lifted for all areas except the 1200 block of Virginia Avenue, which remains under lockdown due to ongoing law enforcement activity.

Residents in the affected area are advised to remain indoors and monitor official channels for further updates.

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