On the afternoon of 12/12/2023, the Cottonwood Police Regional Dispatch Center received a report of a suspicious individual seen in the desert area near Mingus Union High School. According to the caller, a male, possibly of high school age, was observed walking up a hill toward the school’s ball fields and appeared to be carrying what looked like a rifle. It is important to note that this individual was not seen on the school campus.
A Cottonwood police officer, who was writing a report across the street from the Highschool at the time of the call and responded immediately alongside other units and the School Resource Officer. Despite the fact that school had concluded for the day, with only a few students remaining for after-school activities, the school was placed on lockdown as a precaution, and officers thoroughly checked the campus. The investigation concluded that there was no threat present on the campus, and it is believed there was never a direct threat to the school.
Upon re-contacting the original caller, they expressed uncertainty about what the individual was holding, and no one on the campus reported seeing the person in question.
The Cottonwood Police Department extends its gratitude to the Clarkdale Police Department for their swift response and assistance, as well as to the staff of Mingus Union High School for their cooperation in this matter.
